Lawmakers from the treasury benches have called upon the provincial government to undertake a comprehensive review of policies across various sectors to ensure they are on the right track.
However, Friday's session of the Punjab Assembly witnessed a complete boycott by the Opposition, with most lawmakers abstaining from attending.
Their protest centred around the perceived exploitation of farmers under the wheat policy.
The Opposition demanded a revision of the government's policy to ensure fair prices for farmers' wheat, rather than the rates set by the government.
Rana Shahbaz Ahmad, the chief whip of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), visited the Punjab Assembly to monitor the presence of his party's MPs.
He confirmed that no SIC lawmaker attended the session due to the boycott.
During the pre-budget discussions, PML-N lawmakers highlighted various issues faced by the public in their constituencies, particularly in health, education, and food sectors.
They warned of more challenging times ahead if corrective measures are not taken.
Hassan Askari Sheikh from the treasury emphasised the importance of planning in budgetary allocations and admitted the failure of current wheat policies.
He stressed the need to rectify these shortcomings to ensure effective governance.
Syed Zolifqar Ali Shah of the PML-N questioned the competence of the authorities in addressing problems despite having skilled personnel.
He called for a comprehensive policy framework to drive progress, particularly in tax collection and education. He cited the shortage of teachers in areas like Chiniot and highlighted the necessity of understanding the root causes of economic challenges.
Mansoor Azam Sindhu, also from the treasury benches, demanded a transparent investigation into wheat import decisions made during the caretaker government's tenure. He emphasized the importance of fair appointments in government and political positions to bring about meaningful change.
Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan presided over the House session, which adjourned after completing the agenda items. The House is scheduled to reconvene on April 29 (Monday) at 2 pm.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 27th, 2024.
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