How tax-filer policy hits BISP families in remote areas

For many poor families in Pakistan, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is more than just financial help—it’s their lifeline. But now, a new government policy is putting this support at risk. Families are being removed from BISP if anyone in their household is listed as a tax filer.

What Is the New Rule?

The rule was introduced to ensure that only truly needy families get the money.

Why Are Families Losing Support?

The government checks if anyone in a family has filed income tax or owns valuable property like land or a car. If they find such a record, the entire family loses BISP benefits—even if they’re still poor. While this is meant to stop misuse, it’s also creating serious problems for poor families in villages.

Why Remote Areas Are Hit the Hardest

Lack of Awareness

In remote areas, many people don’t know about this new rule. They keep waiting for their payments, not realizing they’ve been removed.

Difficulty in Reaching Help

BISP offices are far away, and travel costs are high for poor families.

Mistaken Identity Issues

Some people are wrongly marked as tax filers because someone else may have used their ID or old records were not updated.

No Internet Access

Without smartphones or internet, these families can’t check their status or file appeals online, leaving them helpless.

What Happens When Payments Stop?

When BISP payments stop, families face serious hardships:

• Food becomes scarce

• Children drop out of school

• Medical care gets delayed

• Mental stress increases for women

How Can Families Fix This?

If you’ve been disqualified from BISP, you can:

1. Visit the nearest BISP center.

2. Bring your CNIC and other documents.

3. Request a re-verification to fix any mistakes in the system.

What Can Be Done to Make It Fair?

• Send mobile teams to villages for appeals.

• Share rules through mosque announcements and radio.

• Set up local helplines in regional languages.

• Issue clear notices explaining disqualification reasons.

Final Thoughts: Make Rules Fair, Not Punishing

This policy was meant to protect welfare funds, but it’s hurting the poor who need help the most. The government must ensure that the system is fair and does not leave deserving families behind.

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