Move sparks backlash with PPP, PTI, MQM-P accusing govt of favoritism, saying relief must be applied in all provinces
By Asghar Ali Mubarak
ISLAMABAD: Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has called for a nationwide adoption of the electricity subsidy scheme recently introduced by the Punjab government, emphasizing the need for equitable relief across all provinces. During a press conference in Islamabad on Monday, Tarar praised the Punjab government’s initiative, which offers a Rs14 per unit reduction in electricity bills for consumers using up to 500 units, highlighting the scheme’s significance as a substantial relief measure.
The Punjab government, led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), has allocated a record-breaking Rs45 billion for the subsidy covering August and September. This move, while lauded by some, has also drawn criticism from various political quarters. Representatives from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) have accused the Punjab administration of partiality, arguing that such relief should be uniformly applied across all provinces rather than favoring one region.
In response to these criticisms, Tarar defended the Punjab initiative and reiterated the federal government’s commitment to providing relief to the public. He stressed the importance of addressing regional concerns fairly and without contributing to provincial divisions. “Everyone should acknowledge and appreciate the Punjab government’s initiative,” Tarar stated, while encouraging other provincial governments to implement similar measures for their residents.
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori echoed these sentiments, urging Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to introduce a comparable subsidy in Sindh. Tessori emphasized that such a move would ensure that residents of Sindh benefit from reduced electricity costs, aligning with the relief efforts seen in Punjab.
The debate highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving equitable energy policies in Pakistan, where regional disparities often influence the implementation and perception of national relief measures. As the federal government navigates these challenges, the focus remains on expanding relief efforts and addressing the diverse needs of all provinces.
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