RECORDER REPORT

LAHORE: The caretaker Punjab Cabinet has decided to celebrate the Independence Day with full fervour on August 14 and its main function will be held at Hazoori Bagh in Lahore.

This was decided during its last meeting held here on Tuesday under the chair of caretaker Chief Minister Dr Hasan Askari.

The meeting also decided that public sector departments will hold different celebrations in connection with Independence Day.

It was also decided to provide foolproof security arrangements for the protection of life and property of the people on the national occasion. The cabinet directed to initiate stern legal action against one-wheelers on Independence Day.

The chief minister said permission can never be granted to take law into one’s own hands in the name of Independence Day and made it clear that legal action will be initiated against the violators of law.

Meanwhile, the cabinet also decided to provide grant for payment of pending bills of United Christian Hospital, Gulberg. The chief minister said steps will be taken personally to help in resolving the issue of UCH.

The meeting accorded approval to provide financial grant for the treatment of a 15-year old blood cancer patient.

The Punjab government will give Rs 1 million while caretaker ministers Sardar Tanvir Ilyas and Anjum Nisar will also donate Rs 1 million each from their own pockets.

On the occasion, an annual report for the year 2017 of the office of provincial ombudsman was presented. The cabinet gave approval to form search committee for constituting the selection panel for appointment of vice chancellor of University of Home Economics, Lahore.

The meeting extended vote of thanks to Dr Hasan Askari, provincial cabinet members, administration, police and line departments for making best arrangements for free, fair and transparent elections in the province.

The chief minister also appreciated the performance of provincial ministers, chief secretary, IG police, district administration, army men, rangers and other agencies for fulfilling the duty of holding transparent elections. Provincial ministers, chief secretary, P&D chairman, IG police and concerned high officials attended the meeting.