For the sake of a name

The objection raised by the PML-N to the name given to the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), and the suggestion from party legislators that it be re-named the National Income Support Programme, provides insight into why we, as a nation, face so many problems. What, after all, can it possibly matter if a scheme is named after a former prime minister – as Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani explained to the National Assembly – to pay tribute to her and her sacrifices? The important thing is that the scheme offers some relief to desperately poor people and brings some cheer into their dark lives through cash hand-outs.

The naming matter is a complete non-issue. It is sad that it has even been brought up in parliament. The decision to do so indicates the inherent pettiness of so many of our politicians and their failure to keep in mind broader interests. Point-scoring of the kind attempted over the BISP explains a great deal about why we are bogged down in a quagmire made up of mediocrity which prevents legislators from looking towards the bigger picture and the plight of citizens.

There are points for potential discussion with respect to the BISP. Analysts have argued that doling out money to people simply accustoms them to receiving charity; that a far greater purpose would be served by setting up schemes that can offer people jobs and a chance to earn a livelihood through their own labour. There is also a question as to the extent to which a monthly cash hand-out solves problems given that so many are tied in to illiteracy, the lack of healthcare and growing social frustration. Allegations have come in of bias in making allocations under the scheme. These are all matters that should be discussed in the National Assembly. They have enormous significance for people and their lives. But the name of the scheme has none at all. The debate surrounding it needs to be put at rest so other more important matters can be taken up.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 1^st, 2010.