Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), has strongly defended Pakistan’s largest social welfare initiative, rejecting recent criticism and stating that the programme “prevents people from becoming beggars” rather than encouraging dependency.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad on Monday, Khalid responded to remarks made by Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah, who had questioned the effectiveness of BISP and raised concerns about alleged issues in its data collection system. His comments had sparked backlash from welfare advocates and political observers.
Rana Sanaullah had reportedly claimed that BISP “served little purpose beyond turning people into beggars,” a statement that drew sharp criticism from multiple quarters. In response, Khalid termed the remarks unfair and insulting to millions of beneficiaries who rely on the programme for basic financial support.
She emphasized that BISP assists vulnerable and hardworking families struggling under inflation and economic pressure. According to her, providing financial aid to deserving households is a state responsibility and must be delivered with dignity and respect for recipients.
Khalid urged critics to avoid political statements that undermine the programme’s purpose and called for an apology from those whose remarks have hurt the sentiments of beneficiary families. She added that constructive criticism was welcome, but politicizing social welfare efforts was harmful.
The BISP chairperson also highlighted that the programme has grown into Pakistan’s largest social protection network since its launch in 2008, supporting millions of low-income households through cash transfers and welfare initiatives such as Kafaalat and educational stipends for children.
She further noted that BISP’s database is the largest in the country after the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), rejecting claims that its data is unreliable. She warned that undermining such institutions could damage years of work in poverty alleviation and social protection.
According to BISP, the programme is internationally recognized as a model for women’s empowerment and financial inclusion, with several countries and global organizations studying its framework. Officials say it continues to play a key role in supporting vulnerable families amid Pakistan’s ongoing inflation and economic challenges.
