Bilawal talks about rights of Punjab farmers, but not of Sindh’s: Azma

LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari said on Monday Bilawal Bhutto used harsh language against Punjab’s leadership in a rally, “but if we merely ask questions, it is considered as disrespect”.

Addressing a press conference at DGPR here, she said: “Why do those who raise voices for Punjab’s farmers, fail to see the state of Sindh’s farmers? If Punjab did not purchase wheat under its policy, it did not leave farmers alone at all. “Punjab’s farmers will be given a Rs100 billion package, Rs5,000 per acre, and a Rs25 billion wheat programme. Punjab’s farmers have been given Kisan Cards, thousands of tractors, and super-seeders.”

The minister said speaking at rallies was easy, but no province had announced a support price for farmers. She said those doing politics in the name of farmers’ rights were today shedding crocodile’s tears for Punjab’s farmers, while remaining completely silent on the poor condition of farmers in Sindh.

She called Bilawal’s statements baseless and said, “It’s easy to politicise farmers’ issues, but finding solutions is the real job of leadership.” She said it was unfortunate that no one had spoken about the condition of Sindh’s farmers. Neither was a wheat price set there, nor were Kisan Cards issued. In contrast, the Punjab government took multiple steps under a comprehensive and transparent policy for the welfare of farmers.