LAHORE: The Punjab government has categorically rejected viral social media claims about an alleged “Maryam Nawaz Sharif Eid Scheme” that purportedly offers Rs 5,000 financial assistance to low-income families ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr.
Provincial Information Minister Uzma Bukhari termed the circulating reports as “baseless” and clarified that no such scheme has been initiated by the provincial administration. “We have not issued any handout or news in this regard,” Bukhari stated in a message to the media, emphasizing the government’s categorical denial of the claims.
The misinformation campaign gained traction on social media platforms beginning March 11, when an Instagram account claimed that the Punjab government had launched the scheme to provide financial relief to eligible citizens during the upcoming Eid celebrations.
According to the false posts, residents of Punjab aged 12 years and above could register through an official portal to receive the Rs 5,000 assistance for household expenses.
The fabricated claims rapidly spread across multiple digital platforms, including YouTube and X (formerly Twitter), creating confusion among citizens about the authenticity of the scheme.
Adviser to Punjab Chief Minister on Political Affairs Zeeshan Malik also addressed the matter, telling media representatives that “this claim is not true” and reiterating the government’s position that no such initiative exists.
Authorities urge citizens to verify information through official government channels before sharing unverified claims on social media, as such misinformation can create public confusion and undermine trust in legitimate government announcements.
