ISLAMABAD (MNN); Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid on Monday called on individuals whose remarks may have offended BISP beneficiaries to offer an apology, stressing that the programme should not be subjected to derogatory criticism or political point-scoring.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Senator Rubina Khalid appeared to respond to recent comments made about the programme, although she did not mention anyone by name.
Her remarks came days after Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah, during a television interview, questioned the accuracy of BISP data in Punjab, alleged corruption within the system, and suggested that the programme encouraged dependency rather than empowerment.
Rejecting such criticism, Rubina Khalid said it was unfair and inappropriate to claim that BISP was turning people into beggars.
She explained that the programme provides support to hardworking and deserving families who strive to earn a living but occasionally require financial assistance from the state during difficult circumstances.
“BISP does not create beggars; rather, it protects vulnerable families from falling into poverty and dependence,” she said.
The BISP chairperson urged public figures and commentators to avoid making statements that could undermine the dignity of beneficiaries.
She described such remarks as disrespectful and said no one had the right to insult families receiving assistance through the programme.
“I appeal to those whose statements may have hurt the sentiments of beneficiary families to acknowledge their concerns and apologise,” she said.
Rubina Khalid noted that constructive criticism and recommendations for improving the programme were always welcome, but derogatory language should be avoided.
She also emphasised that welfare initiatives should not become targets of political rhetoric or partisan agendas.
The senator said both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had expressed full confidence in the Benazir Income Support Programme and its role in supporting low-income households across the country.
Highlighting the programme’s scale, she stated that the BISP database is the largest social welfare database in Pakistan after that of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).
She warned that broad and unverified allegations regarding the programme’s data could damage public trust in an institution that had taken years to develop.
“It takes years to build a credible institution, but only a short time to undermine public confidence through sweeping statements,” she remarked.
