In a pointed post-budget debate, Opposition Leader in the Punjab Assembly, Ahmad Khan Bhachar, Monday criticized the provincial government over the alleged inadequacies and mismanagement of funds. Bhachar condemned the budget summary presented as a “four-page joke,” calling it an insult to Article 133B of the Constitution for its lack of transparency in expenditure.
Bhachar highlighted major budget discrepancies, noting that of the PKR 2,633 billion allocated for the non-development budget, only PKR 525 billion has been spent, leaving substantial funds unaccounted for. He added that, while PKR 842 billion was set aside for development, only 14% of this has been utilized. “How is it possible to spend the remaining 86% in the next six months?” he questioned.
Bhachar further criticized allocations for specific sectors, including PKR 172 billion earmarked for Communication and Works, of which only PKR 44 billion was used. He expressed concern that no funds were released for human rights or minority support, questioning if the government assumes these communities no longer require assistance.
In addressing agriculture, he warned of a potential wheat crisis, citing the high cost of seed and predicting another cycle of reliance on IMF loans to import wheat. He also raised concerns about funds meant for initiatives like a PKR 5 billion model fish market in Lahore and a PKR 2 billion government city, for which he claimed no progress was visible.
Moreover, Bhachar denounced recent expenditures on an air ambulance program, stating that it remains largely inactive. He also accused the government of misusing funds designated for police, claiming that a third of PKR 54 billion was used to suppress PTI protests.
The opposition leader concluded by denouncing the government’s alleged lack of transparency, saying, “We have been pushed against the wall, and it’s time to stand with the people.”