Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari has described the rise in rape cases in the province as alarming, while rejecting claims that overall crime has increased.
Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, Azma Bukhari criticized journalists who had reported an increase in crime, saying those who considered themselves senior journalists should verify information before posting on social media.
She alleged that many people were trying to undermine the chief minister out of jealousy.
Bukhari also criticized what she called prominent journalists, accusing them of relying on reports circulated by propaganda cells.
“I feel sorry for journalists who claim that crime has increased in Punjab. They should verify information before posting on social media,” she said.
She also acknowledged the rise in rape cases, describing it as a matter of serious concern. She stressed that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards incidents of sexual violence.
The minister also claimed that motor vehicle theft had fallen by 75%, adding that the overall crime rate in the province had declined into negative territory.