Punjab Assembly: opposition criticises finance department absences during budget debate

WEB DESK: Tensions flared in the Punjab Assembly as opposition members sharply criticised the government for the repeated absence of senior finance department officials during the ongoing budget debate, calling it a waste of lawmakers’ time and public funds.

Opposition MPA Ahmar Bhatti questioned the purpose of holding discussions when no one from the finance side was present to respond or take notes.

“Who are we addressing? What is the point of this discussion when there is no one to respond?” Bhatti asked, describing the absences as a violation of the assembly’s privileges.

He emphasised that either the finance secretary or special secretary must be present during budget-related discussions a requirement previously reinforced by the deputy speaker on three occasions. Bhatti also pointed out that millions of rupees are spent on assembly sessions, and the absence of senior officials amounts to squandering both taxpayers’ money and lawmakers’ time.

The House was informed that Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman could not attend due to illness. While a deputy secretary was present, the higher-ranking secretary and special secretary were missing, sparking renewed criticism from the opposition.

Panel of Chairpersons member Raja Shaukat Bhatti acknowledged the opposition’s concerns, noting the deputy secretary’s attendance but agreeing that the secretary or special secretary should be summoned to ensure proper engagement.

The proceedings were ultimately adjourned until Tuesday, February 4, 2026, leaving the budget debate unresolved amid a procedural standoff.