LAHORE: Multan Commissioner Amir Kareem Khan on Friday distributed 500 wheelchairs among the people with special needs at a ceremony.

The commissioner urged society to recognise the challenges faced by persons with disabilities. “By standing with them, we can find solutions to their problems,” he said.

He praised the local production of wheelchairs, calling it a positive step towards empowerment. He also assured that steps would be taken to ensure easy access for disabled individuals to public and government facilities, as they deserve equal opportunities like everyone else.

Up to15 per cent of Pakistan’s population consists of disabled individuals.At the ceremony, 500 wheelchairs were distributed. Certificates were awarded to wheelchair manufacturers, while sponsors were honored with traditional Multani Ajrak.

Earlier, the commissioner held a meeting with Director General of Punjab Land Record Authority Tariq Subhani and provided a detailed briefing on the new system for dividing joint landholdings among owners.

Mr Subhani stated that the Punjab government has abolished fees on Wanda (land partition) to facilitate the public. He described the fair, merit-based, and transparent division of joint family land as a revolutionary step in Punjab’s history.

To resolve land disputes, the Punjab government has introduced an innovative programme, “Wanda Karao, Sukh Pao”, which ensures a smooth process for dividing shared properties. Previously, legal heirs often struggled to obtain ownership records or land maps, but this new initiative will streamline the process according to the owners’ preferences. A dedicated wing has also been established to manage the division of joint landholdings.

Commissioner Khan highlighted that this initiative will have long-term positive impacts and the lack of a transparent system for joint land division previously led to family disputes and legal battles. The computerized, merit-based distribution of land will help reduce conflicts, promote fairness, and prevent litigation.

Published in Dawn, February 8th, 2025