In Kunjah, a flood-affected area of Gujrat, the handling of aid distribution has sparked outrage among locals, who say officials have added to their suffering by delivering food in a degrading manner. Instead of receiving support with dignity, displaced families were handed food packs dumped in plastic bags, scattered on dirty ground, and transported on tractor-trolleys typically used for carrying garbage.
Local residents expressed deep frustration, describing the experience as humiliating rather than helpful. “These are not food packs, this is our disgrace,” said one elderly recipient, as others echoed similar sentiments. Many pointed out the harsh contrast between the official promises of quality relief and what was actually received on the ground.
This situation unfolded despite strict directives from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who had ordered uncompromised food quality for flood victims and close oversight by district officials. However, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Gujrat reportedly ignored these instructions. Instead, the DC’s office implemented a new policy, requiring all welfare groups, politicians, and philanthropists to obtain clearance before providing meals, followed by checks from the Punjab Food Authority. Locals allege the rule is being used to protect bureaucratic interests, while disaster victims are left hungry and feeling insulted.
Many flood survivors, having already lost their homes, crops, and livestock, expected compassion from local authorities but say they have been met with neglect and disrespect. An upset young man at a relief camp said, “We lost homes and crops, now they even take away our dignity. The CM gave orders, but the DC here plays his own game.” Another survivor lamented, “We are fighting to stay alive, but the officials think we are trash.”
The treatment of aid recipients has raised serious questions about the government’s approach to disaster relief. Community activists and social leaders accused the administration of incompetence and arrogance, arguing that delivering aid in garbage vehicles sends a message that the victims are of little value.
Calls are growing for immediate action against those responsible. Many residents believe the incident goes beyond simple mismanagement, warning that such behavior erodes public trust in authorities and deepens the sense of injustice suffered by flood victims in Gujrat.
