Heated debate in Punjab PA on wheat issue

LAHORE: In a tense session of the Punjab Assembly, Food Minister Bilal Yasin faced scrutiny over the government’s handling of the wheat procurement crisis.

Yasin clarified that, due to current circumstances, the government cannot purchase wheat, opting instead to provide relief cards to farmers. The assembly erupted in criticism as it was revealed that importing wheat had cost the exchequer billions, yet those responsible remain unaccountable.

The delayed assembly session saw heated exchanges as the government admitted its inability to procure wheat directly from farmers due to logistical and financial constraints. Opposition leader Malik Ahmad Khan lambasted the government for neglecting farmers’ welfare and accused it of favouring middlemen over agricultural producers.

Amidst concerns over the law and order situation, both the opposition and government members called for immediate action to restore stability. As the meeting concluded its agenda, Speaker of the Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan adjourned the session, leaving unresolved tensions and pressing issues looming over the province.