QUETTA (6 AM Report): In an expected budge, the Balochistan cabinet has expressed grave disappointment and concern over the non-provision of financial assistance to the province by federal government.
The provincial cabinet that met under the chair of Chief Minister, Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo here the other day noted that the Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has soft corner for Balochistan, however, the attitude of the Ministries of Planning and Finance is incomprehensible and intolerable with the province.
The cabinet observed that the attitude of federal institutions have been causing backwardness of the province and disappointment among the masses.
It was decided in the cabinet’s meeting that the provincial government would register strong protest over the attitude federal institutions. In addition to this, a delegation led by Chief Minister and comprising the leaders of parliamentary parties, provincial ministers as well as the members of National Assembly and Senate would also meet the Prime Minister in this regard.
The meeting expressed deep concern that due share of the province is not being given to the province despite the constitutional protection granted under NFC award the province being a strong federating unit.
As a result, the ongoing development process is affected, and if the situation was not improved, then it would not be possible for the provincial government to pay salaries to the employees, it was further noted with concern.
It was also observed that the budget is prepared as per its share in the NFC award, but it is not implemented just because of the unexpected deductions in the same.
The cabinet was of the strong view that the federal departments are unaware of the prevailing circumstances and hardships being faced by the province.
It was noted in the cabinet meeting that the provincial government has done the bridge financing of Rs. 5 billion for the federal projects, however, these projects are delayed owing to non-release of the required funds from the federation.
Even, the grant of Rs. 10 billion as announced by the Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif during the floods has also not been released yet. The cabinet also expressed grave concern over the attitude of PPL, which has been delaying payment of arrears of the province under Sui mining lease. The longstanding issue could not be resolved just because of the negative attitude of the PPL despite several meetings held between the provincial government and PPL high ups, it was further noted.
There was a clear stance of the cabinet that the PPL’s attitude and delaying tactics would no more be tolerated at all. In this regard, the provincial government would also make final decision soon, it was decided further.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that the development of Balochistan is not possible without cooperation of federation. He said that it has been our utmost endeavor from the day one to establish best relations with the federal government and ensure it’s assistance for resolving the financial matters.
But, we could not succeed fully in our objective, he regretfully pointed out adding that the orders issued by the Prime Minister are also not being implemented despite his special interest in development of the province, he maintained.
He said that he would put forth the whole situation by meeting Prime Minister accompanied with the political leadership of the province. He is optimistic that the Prime Minister would ensure implementation on his orders.
The Chief Minister on the occasion praised Chief Secretary for establishing incessant contacts with the federal government and holding dialogue with the PPL.
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