Journalist and vlogger Irshad Bhatti has become the center of a new controversy after the Punjab government strongly rejected claims made in one of his recent vlogs regarding alleged spending on the residence of the Chief Secretary Punjab.
The provincial government described the allegations as baseless, misleading, and unsupported by evidence. Officials said the circulation of unverified information could violate Pakistan’s Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) as well as defamation laws.
According to the government, legal action may be considered against individuals involved in spreading what it called false propaganda. Authorities emphasized that publishing allegations without proof can result in legal consequences, including fines and possible prosecution.
The controversy began after Irshad Bhatti discussed claims regarding expenditures at the Chief Secretary’s residence in Lahore’s GOR-1 area. In his vlog, he alleged that more than Rs22 crore was being spent on the development of a 10-kanal garden at the property.
He further claimed that the area was located next to the Commissioner House, a larger government property, and suggested that land had been combined for landscaping and recreational purposes.
Responding to these claims, the Punjab government categorically denied the allegations. Officials stated that the information presented in the vlog was inaccurate and that Irshad Bhatti would be required to provide evidence if the matter proceeds to court.
Bhatti, however, defended his position and maintained that he had cited previously published reporting by journalist Anwar Hussain Samra. According to Bhatti, the report had already been aired and shared by media outlets before he discussed it in his vlog.
In public statements, Bhatti questioned why action was being considered against him when the original report had already been circulated elsewhere. He also stated that he was prepared to face legal proceedings if necessary.
The journalist further criticized government spending in other areas, including foreign visits, official aircraft use, advertising expenditures, and the naming of public projects. He argued that public officials should be open to scrutiny and questioning.
The dispute has sparked debate over media freedom, digital journalism, and the application of cybercrime laws in Pakistan. Supporters of stricter regulation argue that public claims should be backed by evidence, while critics believe journalists should be allowed to raise questions about public spending.
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At present, the allegations remain disputed. The Punjab government has rejected the claims, while Irshad Bhatti continues to stand by his statements. Any legal action or disciplinary proceedings will depend on future investigations and court proceedings.
