Opposition, government members raise concerns over private medical college fees, need for unity in Balochistan
ISLAMABAD:
The Senate session on Friday addressed several national issues, including the health of PTI founder Imran Khan, rising tuition fees in private medical colleges, agricultural reforms, and the political situation in Balochistan. Lawmakers also discussed national security, including terrorism and border management.
PTI founder’s health and February 8th protest
Senator Azam Swati raised concerns over the deteriorating health of PTI founder Imran Khan and acknowledged governance shortcomings in the country.
“The justice system in the country has collapsed,” Swati said, urging policymakers to adopt a stance of compassion and reconciliation. He stressed that Imran Khan’s health is critical and called for expedited medical treatment.
Read: PTI, TTAP ‘will not compromise’ on Imran’s health
MWM chief and Leader of the Opposition, Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, echoed concerns about Imran Khan’s condition, urging that a parliamentary delegation be allowed to visit him in prison and that he be granted access to medical professionals.
On the February 8 protest, Abbas said it would be peaceful and that participation was voluntary.
Prime Minister’s advisor Rana Sanaullah responded, saying Imran Khan is receiving medical care in accordance with the law. He added, “If we are to move forward, we should speak with kindness,” and stressed that the government is adhering to legal procedures in providing treatment.
Private medical college fees
Senator Rubina Qaimkhani raised concerns about rising tuition fees in private medical colleges, criticising the high charges imposed on students.
“Private medical colleges do not meet standards and charge between 25 lakh and 30 lakh rupees in fees,” Qaimkhani said. She singled out Aga Khan University Medical College, noting its tuition approaches 1 crore rupees.
Senator Azam Swati echoed concerns about the financial burden on students and families. “Every medical college is exploiting students,” he said, urging stricter regulation of fees. The Minister of State for Health noted that a fee benchmark of 18 lakh rupees had been established for private medical colleges.
The Presiding Officer, Saleem Mandviwalla, referred the matter to the relevant Senate committee for further review.
Agricultural initiatives and concerns
Minister of State for Health Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath said improving seed quality for wheat and other grains is a government priority. “In the next two to three years, we will have improved seeds for wheat and other grains,” he said.
Bharath highlighted the government’s focus on water conservation, noting the development of water-efficient technologies to address growing scarcity. He added that Punjab has designated green zones to protect farmland, where residential colonies are prohibited.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s status as the world’s ninth-largest rice producer as a notable achievement in agriculture.
Terrorism and national security
Senator Aimal Wali Khan called for a joint parliamentary session to address escalating violence and its impact. “There can be no justification for terrorism,” he said, urging that the Prime Minister and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister be summoned to discuss solutions.
Read more: 24 terrorists killed in two separate IBOs in K-P: ISPR
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry defended existing security measures, including border check posts. “Check posts at the borders are necessary,” he said. Senator Asad Qasim countered, saying people face humiliation and long queues at Rangers checkpoints in Sindh and Balochistan, particularly at Hub Chowki.
Chaudhry assured the Senate that the measures comply with national security requirements.
Baloch-Pashtun political unity in Balochistan
Senator Dinesh Kumar spoke on Balochistan’s political situation, highlighting the historical and cultural importance of festivals such as Basant. He also welcomed Maryam Nawaz’s remarks promoting the Punjabi language, calling it “a very sweet language.”
Also read: Security forces conclude operations after terrorist attacks in Balochistan
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Balochistan President Maulana Abdul Wasay highlighted the political discourse between Baloch and Pashtun communities, calling for continued cooperation. “Baloch and Pashtun are brothers,” he said.
The Senate session was adjourned and will resume at 4 PM on Monday.
