BISP Chairperson Rubina Khalid Holds Live E-Katcheri, Warns Against False Propaganda and Announces Digital Payment Reforms
ISLAMABAD, August 3: Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid, held a live E-Katcheri at the BISP Headquarters to hear complaints from beneficiaries and members of the public, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery.
During the interactive session, 37 callers from different parts of Pakistan shared their concerns. Senator Rubina Khalid directed relevant officials to treat every complaint as a priority, resolve issues without delay, and submit immediate progress reports.
Speaking during the E-Katcheri, the BISP Chairperson said President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have full confidence in the programme’s transparent operations and its role in supporting millions of low-income families across the country.
She stressed that BISP serves deserving households without discrimination based on political, religious, linguistic, or regional affiliations, adding that the programme remains committed to reducing the financial burden on vulnerable families.
Senator Rubina Khalid also criticized attempts by certain groups to spread misinformation against the programme for political gains. She warned that making false allegations or damaging the reputation of BISP and its more than 10 million beneficiary households could lead to legal action under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
Highlighting the programme’s economic impact, she said a World Bank study has shown that BISP not only supports deserving families but also contributes positively to local businesses, shopkeepers, and the broader economy.
The Chairperson also introduced details of BISP’s upcoming digital payment system, under which beneficiaries will be able to withdraw their financial assistance from any authorized agent of partner banks anywhere in Pakistan through Digital Wallets.
She urged women beneficiaries to obtain their free Benazir SIM cards from the nearest BISP office if they have not already done so. Beneficiaries were advised to bring their original CNIC and personal mobile phone and ensure the SIM is inserted into their phone by BISP staff at the time of issuance.
According to Senator Rubina Khalid, beneficiaries will receive SMS notifications when funds are transferred to their Digital Wallet and another confirmation message after cash withdrawal, enabling them to verify that they have received the full payment.
She advised women not to hand over their mobile phones to payment agents and to immediately report any unauthorized deductions or payment irregularities to the nearest BISP office or staff. She emphasized that only biometric verification and the original CNIC are required for withdrawing payments.
Reiterating that all BISP services are provided free of charge, Senator Rubina Khalid encouraged beneficiaries to contact their nearest BISP office or the BISP Helpline (0800-26477) for authentic information, assistance, or to register complaints.
