Former Chief Minister Mahmood Khan of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Parliamentarian has strongly criticised the federal and provincial budgets, labelling them as anti-people. He stated that the federal government has committed a serious injustice against the impoverished populations by imposing taxes on underdeveloped and terrorism-affected regions such as the former FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas) and PATA (Provincially Administered Tribal Areas), particularly in the Malakand division, as part of the 2025-26 budget.
Mahmood Khan emphasised that these areas have been suffering from deprivation for decades, and instead of providing much-needed relief, the imposition of taxes represents the height of oppression. He pointed out that the federal government had previously promised to grant tax-free status to these regions, a commitment that has now been completely disregarded.
He also voiced criticism of the provincial budget, asserting that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has presented a superficial and frivolous budget, lacking clear solutions to pressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, and the rehabilitation process. Former Chief Minister Mahmood Khan demanded that the federal government immediately revoke the tax decision concerning the former FATA and PATA. He urged both governments to review their budgets and implement practical measures to relieve the poor and affected communities.
Read also: KP prioritizes health, education with major budget boost: Barrister Saif
