Claims of threats to IK’s life slammed: Govt initiatives designed only for public welfare: Azma

LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari, while commenting on political narrative, said that claims regarding threats to the life of the PTI founder are repeatedly used for political victimhood.

She clarified that whenever medical assistance was required, it was promptly and fully provided, and there is no cause for concern.

Addressing a press conference at DGPR, she announced that the Punjab government is launching a Rs47 billion Nigehban Ramazan Package this year, under which approximately 4.2 million deserving families will benefit.

On cultural matters, Azma Bokhari clarified that the ban on songs during stage drama performances has no connection with Basant and applies strictly to stage performances involving dance, aimed at maintaining ethics and quality. She added that regulated Basant guidelines focus on public safety, with full registration and monitoring of kites, string, and manufacturers, strict size controls, and price regulation.

Responding to questions, the minister reiterated that all government initiatives are designed for public welfare, not political point-scoring. She also highlighted the expansion of electric bus services to cities including Toba Tek Singh, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mianwali, and Sargodha, with 1,500 new buses approved to extend service down to the tehsil level.

She stated that the relief will be provided directly to beneficiaries through Nigehban Ramazan Cards, ensuring dignified and transparent delivery at people’s doorsteps. The package is aimed at families with a monthly income below Rs45,000. In addition, Maryam Nawaz Rashan Card holders, including labourers and the Suthra Punjab workforce, will also receive special relief, she said.

Azma Bokhari revealed that this Ramazan, the Maryam Nawaz Rashan Card amount has been increased from Rs3,000 to Rs10,000, enabling deserving families to meet their essential needs with dignity.

She further announced that “Nigehban Ramazan – Maryam Ke Mehman Dastarkhwan” will be established in every tehsil, where at least 2,000 people will be served Iftar daily. These arrangements will be made at large parks, mosques, and other suitable locations, under the personal supervision of commissioners and deputy commissioners, while Punjab Food Authority teams will ensure food quality.

The minister said that 65 Sahulat Bazaars are already operational in 30 districts, which will be converted into Ramazan Bazaars five days before Ramazan and later into Eid Bazaars five days before Eid. Remaining districts will have temporary arrangements immediately, while permanent, modern Sahulat Bazaars will be completed across Punjab by June. Fifteen Sahulat Bazaars are also providing free home delivery, benefiting nearly 300,000 people, and the Nigehban Ramazan Card will also be integrated with the home delivery system.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026