BATTAGRAM: The women beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) on Tuesday staged a powerful demonstration against what they described as systemic corruption, extreme mismanagement, and financial exploitation. Dozens of women took to the streets, blocked the main road, and raised strong slogans demanding transparency, accountability, and immediate justice. The protest marks the first time in Battagram’s history that women have collectively demonstrated in such large numbers for their rights.
At the Thakot payment centre, the situation was described as chaotic and deeply troubling. Women reported waiting for over 24 hours under extremely difficult conditions, yet many returned home empty-handed without receiving their payments. Gul Bakhaa from Thakot said, “This is sheer injustice and unfair treatment. We have been waiting since morning, but there is no proper system, no management, and no response from the authorities.”
Meanwhile, at the Banian centre, women accused local retailers of illegal deductions ranging from Rs500 to Rs1000, calling it open corruption and exploitation of vulnerable women.Sherina Bibi from Banian stated, “This is financial exploitation. The retailer deducts money without any justification. We are powerless, but today we are raising our voice.”
Women from remote areas also joined the protest, highlighting the severity and scale of the issue. Bakhtawara Bibi from Battamori remarked, “This support is meant for our children, but corruption is depriving us of our rights. This is unacceptable.”
The protest caused significant disruption as women blocked the main road, drawing attention from the public and local community. Residents of Battagram have expressed strong concern, calling the situation alarming and urging authorities to take immediate and strict action against those involved.Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami Battagram has also announced a protest against this act, terming the situation unjust and unacceptable, and demanding urgent government intervention.
