Punjab govt shuts free iftar scheme, asks charities to step in

The Punjab government has decided to shut down Nigehban dastarkhwans and official iftar points operating across the province, saying the step is necessary due to financial strain linked to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

According to officials, the decision forms part of a wider austerity effort aimed at cutting government spending. Authorities said the administration is working on other relief measures to support low-income residents.

With the decision taking effect, government-run meal distributions will stop for the remainder of Ramadan. Officials clarified that the restriction applies only to state-organised arrangements, and that private donors, charities and philanthropists remain free to continue providing iftar meals.

The government maintains that the move is intended to reduce expenditures while ensuring that vulnerable communities are not completely deprived of support.

The announcement has drawn criticism online, with some users questioning the priorities behind the austerity measures. One commenter wrote, “What about billions of rupees luxury aircraft for herself and her family. What about the austerity drive there.”

Another user reacted sarcastically, posting, “Welcome to purana Pakistan.”

Some commenters also criticised the timing of the decision, noting that only a short period remains before the end of Ramadan. One user wrote in Urdu, “10 din reh gye thay. Wo bhi nhe nikal sakay izzat se iftari dene k... pehlay private logon ko rok rok ker apna naam bnaya free iftari ka aur ab keh rahay private log ker lain hun nahi ker sakty.”

The closure has sparked debate online about the role of government welfare programmes during Ramadan, when public and private iftar initiatives typically increase to assist those in need.