The Punjab Chief Minister’s Office has rejected Right to Information (RTI) requests seeking details of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s official tours, vehicles, and a luxury aircraft acquired by the provincial government. The response has raised renewed debate over transparency and access to public information in Punjab.
According to documents, lawyer Abdullah Malik had filed multiple RTI applications requesting details of fuel, maintenance, travel expenses, official vehicles, and foreign visits. He also sought information on staff salaries and the use of government aircraft during official trips. The requests were submitted between July 2024 and February 2025.
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Meanwhile, the Public Information Officer stated that the requested information was not held by the Chief Minister’s Office. The office also cited legal exemptions under the Punjab Transparency and Right to Information Act 2013 to refuse disclosure. Officials argued that some information could fall under protected categories of the law.
Furthermore, one application also sought details about a Gulfstream G500 luxury jet reportedly acquired by the Punjab government. The administration said the records were not available with the CM Office and returned the request under relevant provisions of the RTI law. The aircraft had previously drawn public criticism over its cost and purpose.
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Overall, the refusal has sparked questions about transparency and accountability in the use of public resources. The case echoes similar past disputes over access to government records in Punjab. Legal experts say the matter highlights ongoing tensions between administrative confidentiality and citizens’ right to information.
