The announcement of Rs 5 million support package per family of missing persons by the government is a welcome step toward addressing the severe economic hardships faced by these families. For too long, the families of missing persons have endured not only emotional torment but also financial strain due to the absence of their breadwinners. This financial support, meant to alleviate their suffering and provide some semblance of relief, hence is a step in the right direction.
However, the success of this initiative hinges on its transparent and fair implementation. The need for a robust and open process cannot be overstated. It is imperative that every eligible family of a missing person receives their rightful share of the support package without delay or discrimination. The establishment of a special committee to determine which families are eligible for immediate support is a positive step. Yet, the effectiveness of this committee will be judged by its ability to operate transparently and inclusively. Any lapse in this regard would not only undermine the intended relief but also exacerbate the anguish of the affected families.
The families of missing persons have already been subjected to unimaginable pain and uncertainty. Any misstep or opacity in the administration of the support package would amount to rubbing salt into their wounds. Therefore, it is crucial that the process for determining eligibility and disbursing funds is conducted with the utmost integrity and openness.
Then the government must intensify efforts to address the core issue—the recovery of the missing persons themselves. In this regard, there are also directions of Islamabad High Court. The families deserve to know the whereabouts of their loved ones, and those responsible for any crime must be held accountable and brought before the courts for trial. To prevent such incidents in the future, it is essential to implement comprehensive measures that uphold human rights and ensure accountability.
