The Punjab caretaker government’s ambitious plan to raise a Rs. 400 million flag at Liberty Chowk on Pakistan’s Independence Day has encountered opposition in the Lahore High Court (LHC).
The petitioner raised significant concerns about the nation’s economic difficulties and the incomplete rehabilitation of flood victims.
The allocation of ‘forty crore rupees’ for a flag hoisting project is causing worry, given the ongoing financial struggles of the nation.
Petitioner’s Call for Change
The petitioner urges the court to intervene and redirect the funds allocated for the flag hoisting towards public welfare, infrastructural development, or other essential needs.
The flood victims have not been completely rehabilitated yet, and the country’s economic situation is the worst we’ve seen. In such circumstances, allocating such a huge sum for flag hoisting is difficult to comprehend.
LHC’s Investigation
In response to the petition, the LHC has requested a detailed report from the caretaker Punjab administration regarding the budget allocation and expenses related to the flag hoisting project, to be submitted by August 4.
Background
The government has faced criticism for engaging in a flagpole rivalry with India. It started when India hoisted a 360 feet tall tricolor flag in March 2017. In response, Pakistan raised a 400 feet tall flag on its 70th Independence Day on August 14, 2017.
Rising Tensions
The situation escalated further when India installed a 418-foot-long flag on the Joint Check Post (JCP) at the Wahga Border. Not to be outdone, Pakistan is now planning to erect a 500-foot-high flag at Liberty, Lahore.
Extravagant Spending
The provincial government plans to spend a staggering Rs. 400 million from the development budget on this project. The flag-raising ceremony is scheduled for Independence Day on August 14, 2023.
