Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari Challenges Sharmila Faruqui to Debate on Sindh Government’s Performance

Lahore: Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari has challenged PPP leader Sharmila Faruqui to a public debate over the performance of Punjab and Sindh governments, claiming that despite 17 years of PPP rule in Sindh, development remains “invisible.”

Responding to Faruqui’s criticism, Bukhari said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s government has not even completed two years, yet initiated 90 public welfare projects—50 of which are already completed. She contrasted this with Sindh’s 17-year rule, arguing that the PPP could not even list 17 significant projects in that time.

Highlighting Punjab’s achievements, Bukhari said:

* 90,000 houses were provided under the *Apni Chhat Apna Ghar* program.
* 80,000 scholarships were awarded.
* 9,500 tractors distributed among farmers.
* 27,000 electric bikes given to students.
* Free distribution of advanced laptops to bright students continues.
* Construction of a 1,000-bed cancer hospital, cardiology hospitals, free medicines, and electric buses are underway.

Bukhari remarked: *“I am ready for a debate anytime. Let’s compare performance. In Sindh, there is development that no one can see—bring it forward and show it to the nation.”*

She further claimed that even Karachi residents praise Lahore’s infrastructure and cleanliness, which bothers Sindh’s leadership. Criticizing PPP’s reliance on the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), she said: *“Maryam Nawaz is giving Rs. 1 million relief cheques to Punjab’s flood victims, while Sindh’s victims get only Rs. 10,000 through BISP. We have no objection, but don’t impose it on Punjab.”*

The war of words has fueled political rivalry, with Uzma Bukhari insisting Sindh’s long tenure offers no match to Punjab’s recent rapid development.