Opposition, government members raise concerns over private medical college fees, need for unity in Balochistan
ISLAMABAD:
Friday’s Senate session discussed several national issues, including the health of PTI founder Imran Khan, rising tuition fees in private medical colleges, agricultural reforms and the political situation in Balochistan. Lawmakers also discussed national security, including terrorism and border management.
Health of PTI founder and February 8 demonstration
Senator Azam Swati has raised concerns over the deteriorating health of PTI founder Imran Khan and acknowledged the governance shortcomings in the country.
“The country’s justice system has collapsed,” Swati said, urging policymakers to adopt a stance of compassion and reconciliation. He stressed that Imran Khan’s health was critical and called for expedited medical treatment.
Read: PTI, TTAP ‘won’t compromise’ on Imran’s health
MWM leader and Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas echoed concerns over Imran Khan’s condition, urging that a parliamentary delegation be allowed to visit him in prison and that he be given access to medical professionals.
At the February 8 protest, Abbas said it would be peaceful and participation was voluntary.
Prime Minister’s Advisor Rana Sanaullah responded by saying that Imran Khan was receiving medical treatment as per the law. He added: “If we want to move forward, we need to speak kindly,” and stressed that the government follows legal procedures when it comes to providing care.
Private medical school fees
Senator Rubina Qaimkhani has raised concerns over rising tuition fees in private medical colleges, criticizing the high fees imposed on students.
“Private medical colleges do not meet the standards and charge anywhere between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 30 lakh as fees,” Qaimkhani said. She chose the Aga Khan University Medical College, pointing out that its tuition fees approach Rs 1 crore.
Senator Azam Swati echoed concerns about the financial burden on students and families. “Every medical school exploits students,” he said, calling for stricter regulation of fees. The Minister of State for Health noted that an amount of Rs 18 lakh had been established for private medical colleges.
Chairman Saleem Mandviwalla referred the matter to the relevant Senate committee for further consideration.
Agricultural initiatives and concerns
Minister of State for Health Mukhtar Ahmad Bharat said improving the quality of seeds of wheat and other cereals was a priority of the government. “In the next two to three years we will have improved seeds for wheat and other cereals,” he said.
Bharath highlighted the government’s focus on water conservation, emphasizing the development of water-saving technologies to address growing scarcity. He added that Punjab has designated green zones to protect agricultural lands, where residential colonies are prohibited.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s status as the world’s ninth largest rice producer as a notable achievement in agriculture.
Terrorism and national security
Senator Aimal Wali Khan has called for a joint parliamentary session to address the escalating violence and its impact. “Nothing can justify terrorism,” he said, urging that the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa be summoned to discuss solutions.
Learn more: 24 terrorists killed in two separate IBOs in KP: ISPR
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry defended existing security measures, including border checkpoints. “Border checkpoints are necessary,” he said. Senator Asad Qasim hit back, saying people were facing humiliation and long queues at Rangers checkpoints in Sindh and Balochistan, especially at Hub Chowki.
Chaudhry assured the Senate that the measures were in line with national security requirements.
Baloch-Pashtun political unity in Balochistan
Senator Dinesh Kumar spoke about the political situation in Balochistan, highlighting the historical and cultural importance of festivals such as Basant. He also welcomed Maryam Nawaz’s remarks promoting the Punjabi language, calling it a “very gentle language”.
Also read: Security forces conclude operations after terror attacks in Balochistan
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Balochistan President Maulana Abdul Wasay highlighted the political discourse between the Baloch and Pashtun communities, calling for continued cooperation. “Baloch and Pashtun are brothers,” he said.
The Senate session has been adjourned and will resume Monday at 4 p.m.
