Bilawal lashes out at federal govt; urges use of BISP for flood relief

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has strongly criticised the federal government over its response to the recent floods that have devastated large parts of the country, particularly in South Punjab. He also questioned the government’s reluctance to use the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) for immediate flood relief, calling it the “only effective mechanism” available at the federal level.

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He made these remarks during a press conference at the Sindh Chief Minister House, flocked by CM Murad Ali Shah. “Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, BISP was the primary tool used to support victims. I don’t understand why it seems like ego is driving federal decisions now,” Bilawal said. “Is the reason for not using BISP ego, or something else?”

He said that BISP has consistently proven to be a reliable platform for emergency assistance and noted that during previous crises, including floods and pandemics, it was used successfully to distribute aid. “We will make every effort to help flood victims. This is a time for unity, not ego,” said the PPP Chairman.

Bilawal expressed concern that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led federal government has not taken appropriate steps in the wake of the floods. He added that the federation should have appealed for international support immediately after the disaster struck.

“What is the fault of the people of South Punjab? They have suffered immense losses. The federation plays a frontline role during natural disasters. That is not the job of any one province,” he said.

He also pointed out the contradiction in the PML-N’s stance, saying the party had previously praised BISP during election campaigns, yet now appears to backtrack on its use.

Turning to the economic and agricultural impact of the floods, Bilawal warned of growing food insecurity and rising costs for essential commodities like wheat. He appreciated the Prime Minister’s declaration of an agricultural emergency but stressed the need for immediate policy action to support local farmers.

“Instead of importing wheat at high costs, we should support our farmers. The Sindh government is ready to help, and I’ve asked the Chief Minister to prepare a comprehensive plan,” he said. “If wheat cultivation is supported properly, we won’t need to import it.”

He urged the federal government to support provinces in strengthening the agricultural sector, saying it would ultimately benefit the entire country.

Bilawal also highlighted the PPP’s Hari Card initiative aimed at assisting small landowners and farmers. He encouraged people to register and benefit from the program, which provides direct support. “DAP and urea will be provided to support cultivation. We are aware of the hardships farmers face, and we will do everything possible to support them,” he added.

While thanking the Prime Minister for certain relief measures, such as the agricultural emergency, Bilawal reiterated his call for electricity bill concessions for flood victims and urged greater coordination between federal and provincial governments.

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Bilawal also touched upon political issues and criticised the PML-N for failing to share any draft or take stakeholders into confidence regarding the proposed 26th Constitutional Amendment. He said the PPP would review the amendment once formally presented and take a decision accordingly. He also made a statement welcoming his cousin’s (Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Jr) recent entry into politics. Bilawal also lauded the recent Pakistan-Saudi Arabia deal.