Islamabad: Information Minister Attaullah Tarar called on all provinces to follow example set by Punjab government in providing electricity subsidies, emphasising need for equitable relief across country.

Speaking at press conference here, Tarar highlighted significant step taken by Punjab government, led by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz in offering Rs14 per unit reduction in electricity bills for consumers using less than 500 units.  This initiative, which includes record-breaking Rs 45 billion subsidy for August and September, has drawn both praise and criticism. “Everyone should acknowledge and appreciate Punjab government’s initiative,” Tarar stated, urging other provincial governments to extend similar relief to their residents. However, move has sparked controversy, with political figures from Pakistan Peoples’ Party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan accusing Punjab government of favouritism, arguing that relief should be applied uniformly across all provinces. In response to these criticisms, Tarar reiterated government’s commitment to providing relief to public and encouraged other provinces to take similar steps.