Fazl: provinces' issue revolves around NFC

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman stated on Sunday that the province-related issue is primarily about the National Finance Commission (NFC). He emphasized that the Constitution permits increasing the NFC share but not decreasing it. Fazl, speaking during a visit to Lahore, expressed concern over the alarming law and order situation and the government's loss of control in three provinces.

He argued that the federation seeks to take control of the provinces' mineral resources, which were newly recognized as belonging to the provinces following the 18th Amendment. Fazl believed that the 18th Amendment, including provisions regarding provincial revenues, is not being accepted. He also criticized the creation of dummy assemblies and demanded the withdrawal of a law on the sanctity of the Holy Prophet to prevent blasphemy.

Fazl warned that the country's law and order issues were crippling common people's ability to work or travel, with provinces literally burning. He urged the state to acknowledge its weakness and recognize that it is formed by the people, not the other way around. Fazl questioned the prospects of economic development without peace and security, noting that India has become the world's fourth-largest economy with substantial foreign exchange reserves, while Pakistan's reserves are much lower, largely borrowed.

He lamented that despite the end of colonialism, the colonial system persists in practice, with the IMF and World Bank effectively controlling Pakistani resources and decisions. Fazl stressed the need to assess whether the current environment and preparations are suitable for creating new provinces.