Rumors Surrounding Paraplegic Center
Peshawar Are Misleading ؔ Spokesperson
Peshawar(Special Representative) According to global Times news agency Europe,A spokesperson for the Paraplegic Center Peshawar has strongly refuted the baseless allegations and rumors being circulated on social media following the recent visit of the Chief Minister KP. Terming it as part of a negative propaganda campaign by certain vested interests, the spokesperson clarified that the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa did not announce any province-wide financial stipend for persons with disabilities during his visit. Instead, he specifically announced an increase in the provincial government’s allocated funding for the Paraplegic Center, a commendable step for which the institution is deeply grateful.It is important to note that the Paraplegic Center operates with strict financial discipline and transparency, and meets approximately 45% of its expenses through donations from generous philanthropists. The center remains free from any financial or administrative scandal and continues to serve as the only major facility in the region dedicated to the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals with spinal cord injuries, spina bifida, spinal TB, spinal tumors, polio, autism spectrum disorders and congenital clubfoot.The spokesperson also dismissed as misleading the claim that the Center provides funds to the charitable organization Friends of Paraplegics. In reality, this organization is a vital partner and a blessing for the Center’s patients. It actively supports persons with disabilities by offering peer counseling, organizing recreational and cultural activities, and facilitating post-rehabilitation economic empowerment. Friends of Paraplegics has consistently played an effective role in humanitarian service and remains a trusted and longstanding collaborator of the Center. The Paraplegic Center Peshawar welcomes and appreciates all such voluntary organizations that contribute selflessly to the cause of disability rehabilitation.The spokesperson further highlighted that the Center has been tirelessly working for the physical, psychological, and social rehabilitation of persons with disabilities for several years. To date, over 15,000 paraplegic patients have received free treatment, been relieved of chronic pressure ulcers, and provided with customized wheelchairs and thousands of other assistive devices. Additionally, more than 5,000 children with clubfoot have been treated and enabled to walk and run, “a testament to the Center’s exemplary medical and humanitarian services”.
Moreover, the Paraplegic Center is not merely a physical rehabilitation facility; it is also an active advocate for the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities. The Center proudly endorses the 13-point Charter of Demands put forth by the disability community of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which includes essential rights such as access to education, employment, stipends, and economic rehabilitation. Encouragingly, the provincial Department of Social Welfare is seriously engaging with these demands.However, the spokesperson issued a stern warning: if certain malicious elements continue to undermine the reputation of the Center through false narratives and toxic propaganda, both the Paraplegic Center and the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be compelled to pursue legal action and expose those behind such campaigns. These smear efforts not only tarnish the image of a reputable institution but also cast unwarranted doubts on the sincerity and efforts of the entire provincial government.
The spokesperson concluded with an earnest appeal to all segments of society: reject negativity, rise above politics, and respect this national asset. Let us strengthen and support the noble mission of the Paraplegic Center, which is serving hundreds of persons with disabilities, including many suffering from severe pressure sores, with unmatched dedication and compassion, day and night.