Islamabad – Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar has strongly defended the federal government’s relief efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), insisting that despite active assistance being provided to flood-hit districts, certain statements made by provincial ministers are “regrettable” and politically motivated. His remarks came during an interview on Geo News’ program Naya Pakistan, where he addressed ongoing debates about disaster management, constitutional amendments, and political point-scoring.

Relief Efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

In the wake of devastating floods caused by relentless rains, cloudbursts, and flash floods, the federal government claims to be working tirelessly to support the people of KP. According to Tarar, federal teams have already reached the worst-affected districts, distributing emergency relief supplies including food, clean water, tents, and medical kits. He emphasized that the federal government views the loss of lives and livelihoods in KP as a national tragedy rather than a provincial problem.

“The loss of over 328 lives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to floods is not just a provincial issue—it is a national catastrophe. Our government has ensured that aid reaches affected areas swiftly, without any discrimination. Yet, instead of cooperating, some provincial ministers are issuing disappointing statements that only create divisions,” Tarar remarked.

Criticism of Provincial Ministers

While not naming specific ministers, Tarar expressed dismay over the rhetoric coming from KP officials, which he said undermines unity at a time when solidarity is most needed. “Certain provincial voices are attempting to politicize relief operations rather than recognizing the human suffering. I would urge them to visit the field themselves—as Barrister Saif did—to see the scale of federal support being provided on the ground.”

He pointed out that rescue and relief are being carried out in partnership with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the Pakistan Army, and local administrations. According to him, these coordinated efforts have saved lives, prevented further casualties, and brought timely assistance to displaced families.

Clarification on Constitutional Amendments

Tarar also took the opportunity to dismiss rumors about constitutional changes, particularly regarding the 27th Amendment and the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. Some opposition figures had alleged that the government was preparing drafts to alter resource distribution between provinces.

“There is no draft, no document, and no proposal under consideration regarding the 27th Amendment or the NFC Award. These are baseless rumors designed to mislead the public. Our focus is entirely on relief operations and the rehabilitation of flood-affected citizens,” he clarified.

The Debate over National Icons in Campaigns

Responding to criticism about the absence of national icons in government publicity material, Tarar defended the federal government’s record. He explained that every audiovisual advertisement released by the federal authorities prominently featured the images of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal.

“The irony is that KP’s own provincial campaigns did not include Quaid and Iqbal in their advertisements. Yet they accuse us of playing politics. Only one of our newspaper ads lacked their pictures, and this was deliberately politicized by opponents. We have never used our national heroes as tools for political point-scoring,” he stated.

KP’s Flood Toll and Challenges Ahead

The humanitarian crisis in KP remains severe. Official reports confirm that at least 328 people have lost their lives as a result of the ongoing floods. Thousands of homes have been damaged or completely destroyed, while roads, bridges, and schools have suffered extensive damage. Croplands across Swat, Chitral, Dera Ismail Khan, and other districts have been inundated, creating fears of food insecurity in the coming months.

In many areas, access remains limited due to collapsed bridges and landslides, forcing rescue teams to rely on helicopters or boats. Local hospitals are under immense strain as injured victims and flood-related patients pour in. With clean water supplies disrupted, health experts warn of an impending outbreak of waterborne diseases.

The provincial government has called for urgent financial support and greater allocation of resources. While acknowledging that aid has reached certain areas, KP officials argue that the scale of the disaster demands much more than what has been provided so far.

Federal vs. Provincial Politics

The dispute between the federal and KP governments reflects a broader political divide in Pakistan. KP is governed by the opposition party, while the federal government is led by its rivals. This political backdrop often complicates coordination during national crises.

Tarar, however, emphasized that disasters should rise above politics. “When people are losing their homes, children, and livelihoods, it is not the time for political blame games. It is the time for collective action,” he stressed.

Call for Unity and Cooperation

Despite criticism of provincial ministers, Tarar ended on a note of unity, urging both governments to set aside differences. “The federal government remains committed to the people of KP. We will continue to provide relief and support until every affected family has been rehabilitated. This is not about politics—this is about humanity.”

Moving Forward

As rescue and relief efforts continue, attention is gradually shifting toward long-term recovery. Rehabilitation of displaced families, reconstruction of homes, and repair of critical infrastructure will require billions of rupees and months of effort. Both provincial and federal authorities face the challenge of mobilizing resources, ensuring transparency, and rebuilding trust with flood victims.

Experts argue that beyond relief, Pakistan must invest in climate resilience. With the country experiencing increasingly severe monsoon patterns and frequent flooding, disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and infrastructure upgrades are essential to prevent future tragedies.

For now, the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are caught in the midst of grief and uncertainty. Families mourning the loss of loved ones also struggle with the fear of hunger, homelessness, and disease. Whether the federal and provincial governments can bridge their political differences to deliver meaningful relief will determine not only the outcome of this crisis but also the faith of citizens in their leadership.