Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid has strongly defended Pakistan’s largest social welfare initiative and called for an apology over recent remarks that she said offended millions of beneficiaries.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Khalid responded to criticism directed at the programme by Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah. His comments had sparked debate about the effectiveness and role of the welfare scheme.
Last week, Rana Sanaullah questioned the performance of BISP and raised concerns about the programme’s data collection process. He also alleged corruption in the system and suggested that the programme had done little more than create dependency among recipients.
His remarks drew criticism from social welfare advocates and political observers, who argued that the comments unfairly targeted vulnerable families receiving financial assistance.
Rejecting the allegations, Khalid said BISP plays an important role in supporting low-income households struggling with inflation and economic challenges. She stressed that many beneficiaries are hardworking individuals who need temporary financial support to meet basic household expenses.
According to Khalid, providing assistance to deserving families is a responsibility of the state. She said such support should be delivered in a way that preserves the dignity and self-respect of recipients.
“BISP does not turn people into beggars; it prevents people from becoming one,” she said while addressing reporters. She added that derogatory remarks about beneficiaries were unfair and hurtful to millions of families across the country.
The chairperson urged those making such statements to avoid targeting welfare recipients and to apologize to those whose feelings had been hurt. She emphasized that criticism should focus on improving the programme rather than insulting its beneficiaries.
Khalid also welcomed constructive suggestions aimed at strengthening the welfare initiative. However, she warned against using the programme as a tool for political point-scoring.
She maintained that social protection programmes should remain focused on helping vulnerable citizens rather than becoming part of political disputes. Khalid further noted that both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have expressed confidence in the programme and its objectives.
Founded in 2008 and named after former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, the Benazir Income Support Programme has become Pakistan’s largest social safety net. Over the years, it has expanded through initiatives such as the Kafaalat cash transfer programme, educational stipends for children, and support schemes aimed at empowering women-led households.
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The latest controversy has once again brought attention to the role of welfare programmes in supporting vulnerable communities and addressing poverty across Pakistan.
