Sardar Abdul Raheem, General Secretary of Pakistan Muslim League Functional Sindh, has strongly opposed the federal budget 2026-27 in a statement today, terming it detrimental to the public and the province of Sindh.
The budget, which comprises 18.8 trillion rupees, has a deficit of more than 7 trillion rupees. Raheem says it proves the government’s economic claims misleading.
According to Raheem, the heavy tax target of more than 15 trillion rupees constitutes a cruel burden on citizens, particularly affecting traders and the middle-income class.
He describes the budget as devoid of genuine relief measures for the poor, laborers, farmers, retirees, and the middle class.
Raheem states that Karachi, being a major economic hub, has not been given any significant development package. He highlights the absence of comprehensive plans regarding the city’s issues like water, sewage, transportation, and infrastructure.
The population of Sindh is deprived of basic facilities such as drinking water, healthcare, and education, Raheem notes.
The province is struggling with water scarcity, agricultural distress, and infrastructure degradation, Raheem expresses regret over the absence of extraordinary measures in the budget to address these crises.
According to Raheem, the obligations of debt servicing and interest payments are limiting the resources available for essential sectors like development, health, and education.
He insists that all provinces, including Sindh, should receive their fair financial share under the NFC award.
Raheem demands specific development packages for Karachi and additional funds for initiatives in water, agriculture, health, education, and employment in Sindh.