Many women who benefit from the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) gathered to protest the sudden closure of the BISP centre in Shah Jamal, Muzaffargarh. The centre was shut down because it lacked proper facilities and there were not enough retailers to support its operations. This caused major problems for the women who rely on the centre to receive their payments. In frustration, they blocked a main road for several hours, calling for action to reopen the centre and improve its services.
| Key Points About BISP Protest | Details |
| Reason for Protest | Closure of BISP centre in Shah Jamal |
| Issue Identified | Lack of retailers and necessary facilities |
| Action Taken by Protesters | Blocked the road for several hours |
| Call for Action | Reopen the centre and provide better services |
Table of Content
Surprise Inspection at BISP Centre
In a separate incident, Assistant Commissioner Mukarram Sultan carried out a surprise visit to the BISP centre in Mauza Khangarh. During his inspection, he discovered that some retailers were illegally deducting money from the accounts of BISP beneficiaries. Two women, Zainab Mai and Saira Bibi, shared that although they were supposed to receive Rs10,500, a retailer deducted Rs700 from their payment. A case was registered against the retailer, Wasif, and his accomplices. While Wasif managed to escape, one of his accomplices was arrested.
Illegal Money Deductions at BISP Centres
The issue of illegal money deductions seems to be a widespread problem at several BISP centres. Retailers are reportedly taking advantage of the beneficiaries, who are often poor and unaware of their full entitlements. Many women have claimed that the retailers told them that the administration was also involved in these illegal activities. The women are now calling for justice and a proper investigation into these deductions. They also demand that the BISP administration ensure full payments without any illegal cuts.
- Retailers deducting money illegally from beneficiaries
- Women beneficiaries receiving less than promised
- Some retailers claim the administration is involved
- Beneficiaries demanding action to stop the deductions
Lack of Basic Facilities at BISP Centres
In addition to the illegal deductions, the protesting women raised concerns about the poor conditions at BISP centres. They mentioned that many centres lack basic facilities like seating, drinking water, security, and shaded areas to protect them from the harsh weather. These issues make it even harder for the women, who already face financial difficulties, to access the help they need. The women have asked Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to visit Muzaffargarh and address these issues personally.
Government Response to BISP Centre Problems
The government has taken some steps to address the problems at BISP centres. Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr. Abida Fareed has instructed assistant commissioners to conduct surprise visits to ensure that the centres are functioning properly and that the beneficiaries are receiving their full payments. During her visits to various BISP centres, she found that some women were satisfied with the arrangements, but the protests in Shah Jamal show that much more needs to be done.
Also Read: Nadra ID Card Tracking: How to Check Status in 2024
Conclusion
The closure of the BISP centre in Shah Jamal and the illegal deductions from beneficiaries’ payments have caused widespread anger among the women who rely on this financial assistance. While the government has taken some steps to improve the situation, the beneficiaries are demanding better facilities, full payments, and accountability for those involved in the illegal deductions. With ongoing protests, it is clear that more action is needed to address these serious issues and ensure that the BISP programme truly benefits those in need.