KARACHI: Sindh’s senior minister Sharjeel Inam Memon on Monday strongly criticized the federal government for importing wheat, saying the move is causing heavy losses to local farmers.
Speaking to the media, Memon urged the government to “use its wisdom” and avoid policies that, in his words, “benefit farmers of other countries while hurting our own.” He stressed that Pakistan is set to spend around Rs300 billion (US$1.2 billion) on wheat imports despite having stocks in Sindh.
The minister revealed that Sindh currently holds 1.2 million tonnes of wheat in reserve, while Punjab faces a severe shortage. “We are willing to buy wheat from abroad at Rs9,000 per 40kg but only offer Rs4,000 to our own farmers. This is unfair,” he said.
Memon further stated that the federal government must realize that the PPP is not its ally but only extending conditional support. He accused Punjab of poor planning in tackling floods, which he claimed worsened the devastation.
The minister also expressed regret over the government’s backing of individuals who, according to him, used inappropriate language in politics. “Instead of condemning such behavior, they launched campaigns in his support. That is disappointing,” Memon remarked.
