MUZAFFARABAD: The scrutiny process for applications submitted under the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government’s recently-launched Social Protection Programme has been completed, with over 18,000 applicants declared eligible to benefit from the initiative.

This was stated by Irshad Ahmed Qureshi, AJK’s Secretary of the Social Protection Programme, Social Welfare and Women Development, in a press release issued on Friday.

Mr Qureshi recalled that the programme was launched by the government to support deserving and underprivileged members of society, including widows, divorced women, orphaned children, persons with disabilities, the elderly and transgender persons.

The registration process, he added, was completed in August 2024 through an extensive awareness campaign in print and social media, ensuring equal and transparent opportunities.

He said the scrutiny of applications was carried out by a credible institution specialising in social and economic protection, adhering to global standards and as a result, 18,161 applicants were deemed eligible to benefit from the programme.

To further ensure transparency, Mr Qureshi said, details of the beneficiaries had been uploaded to the Social Protection Programme’s website (www.spp.swdajk.gov.pk) and shared with the respective district social welfare officers.

He urged the general public to review the beneficiaries’ details.

“If anyone has an objection to the eligibility of a listed individual, they may submit a written complaint, along with an affidavit, a copy of their CNIC, and a contact number, to the respective district offices within the next 15 days,” he said.

However, he warned that punitive action would be taken against baseless or false complaints.

“As responsible citizens, it is everyone’s moral duty to respect the dignity of deserving individuals. Therefore, it is hoped that people will refrain from making false objections,” he said.

Published in Dawn, December 21st, 2024