Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has criticised Jamaat-e-Islami chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman over his reported remarks about financial assistance for poor families, saying support for vulnerable people reflects the state’s responsibility rather than charity.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Memon said describing assistance for the poor as begging showed an insensitive attitude towards low-income families. He also criticised what he called the ridicule of poor women and deserving households.

Memon said political leaders should not turn the right of underprivileged people to receive assistance into a political controversy. He argued that poverty requires practical measures and long-term solutions rather than criticism of welfare support.

Memon Defends Benazir Income Support Programme

The provincial information minister defended the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), describing it as an important initiative for supporting poor women and deserving families.

He said international institutions had also recognised the programme. According to Memon, criticism of BISP undermines efforts to provide financial assistance to vulnerable households.

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Memon said the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had supported low-income communities and accused Jamaat-e-Islami of focusing on press conferences rather than highlighting its own public welfare achievements.

PPP and Jamaat-e-Islami Clash Over Karachi Politics

Memon also responded to claims about the PPP’s popularity in Karachi. He argued that the election of a PPP-affiliated mayor contradicted Jamaat-e-Islami’s assertions that Karachi residents rejected the party.

The minister’s remarks reflect an ongoing political dispute between the PPP and Jamaat-e-Islami over public support, welfare programmes and their respective records of serving Karachi’s residents.