The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called on the Punjab government to urgently prioritise the needs of families affected by severe monsoon flood in south Punjab, warning that many remain without adequate assistance as winter approaches.
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In a statement issued on Monday, the HRCP said a fact-finding mission conducted earlier this month in flood-hit areas documented widespread delays, irregularities and alleged discrimination in relief and compensation efforts. The mission visited Basti Lang and Basti Sher Shah in Multan district, as well as Basti Jat Khurpa in Uch Sharif.
Residents of Basti Lang reported that nearly 300 houses were destroyed during the floods. However, they complained that official surveys to assess damages were either delayed or not carried out at all, leaving many families without compensation. A compensation rate of Rs20,000 per acre announced by the government was described by affected residents as “adding insult to injury”, given the scale of losses.
In Mauza Jat Khurpa, villagers alleged that floodwaters from the Sutlej River were deliberately diverted towards their settlements to safeguard nearby towns and influential agricultural lands. Across all surveyed sites, communities claimed that relief distribution and damage assessments had been politicised, with some residents alleging that only those carrying recommendation slips from legislators received government aid.
The HRCP also highlighted the extensive destruction of orchards and farmland. In several areas, land remains waterlogged, raising fears that farmers will be unable to sow the next crop and may lose their savings and livelihoods.
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Calling for immediate action, the HRCP urged the Punjab government to conduct transparent, inclusive and timely damage assessments, ensure urgent rehabilitation and housing support, and hold officials accountable for any irregularities. It stressed that tenant farmers and agricultural workers must be included in all relief and compensation schemes.