LAHORE: Lahore High Court (LHC) observed that distribution of free flour by making people wait in long queues was violation of their self-respect and dignity.

In its detailed verdict on petition filed against handing over of free flour after death of people in stampedes at distribution points in Punjab, LHC’s Justice Shahid Jamil Khan barred caretaker government of province from publicising scheme in media. Verdict noted that Article 14 of the Constitution mentioned human dignity. Judgment noted that Article 14 of Constitution should not be violated during procedure of distributing essential food items to deserving people. According to written order, making people stand in lines for provision of food items was insulting to their self-respect and dignity.

It also noted that media coverage of distribution was tantamount to adding fuel to fire and displaying performance through government funds was equal to “Corrupt practice” and “Bad faith”.

“Holy Quran also forbids personal publicity regarding distribution of charity,” verdict read. The verses of Holy Quran have also been incorporated in court judgment.

“Self-respect of citizens should be maintained in line with Islamic teachings. Both [Holy] Quran and Constitution guarantee human dignity and respect,” judgment read. Court noted in judgment that according to government’s lawyer, 12.3 million deserving families has been identified in Punjab that were not registered with Benazir Income Support Programme. Court ordered caretaker government of Punjab to provide direct subsidy to these families.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 08 2023

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