The Punjab Assembly witnessed a heated debate over the provincial budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, as treasury and opposition lawmakers traded sharp criticism over spending priorities and development allocations.
During the session, opposition members accused the government of presenting a budget focused on figures rather than addressing the needs of key sectors. They alleged that allocations for agriculture, education and health had been reduced, potentially affecting farmers, students and the wider public.
Opposition lawmaker Ejaz Shafi argued that cuts in development funding for agriculture, higher education, special education and healthcare would have long-term consequences for public welfare. He maintained that the budget failed to adequately address challenges facing these sectors.
The session, chaired by Panel of Chairpersons member Malik Ahmad Saeed Khan, began after a delay of nearly one and a half hours. As discussions continued, government ministers defended the budget and rejected the opposition’s claims.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari said the government remained committed to public welfare and development. She highlighted several initiatives introduced by the provincial administration, including electric bus projects, the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar housing scheme, the Green Tractor Programme, laptop distribution and scholarship programmes for students.
Provincial Minister Bilal Yasin also defended the government’s performance, stating that record development projects were underway across the province. He said progress had been made in healthcare services, road infrastructure and sanitation while relief measures were being provided to farmers and citizens.
Opposition members Farrukh Javed Moon and Opposition Leader Moin Riaz Qureshi broadened the discussion by raising concerns about election transparency, the wheat crisis and alleged corruption. Qureshi also called for an impartial investigation into the death of a young girl during a Counter Crime Department firing incident in Chakwal.
The debate also touched on the rights of South Punjab, development projects and farmers’ issues. Following the completion of the agenda, the assembly session was adjourned until Monday morning.
The budget debate is expected to continue as lawmakers review sectoral allocations and government spending plans for the upcoming fiscal year.