PESHAWAR (Dunya News) – The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced the auction of special vehicle number plates carrying the names of President Asif Ali Zardari, former prime ministers Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan, in a move aimed at generating additional revenue.
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According to official details, the Excise and Taxation Department will auction fancy and unique choice number plates linked to prominent political and national figures on January 27 at Nishtar Hall, Peshawar. Bidding will start from Rs1 million, and the highest bidder will receive the plate of their preferred personality.
Provincial Excise Minister Fakhr Jahan said the initiative will be expanded in phases to include more national leaders, well-known personalities, regions and communities. He added that vehicle owners are showing strong interest and the auction is expected to provide a noticeable boost to the public exchequer. Applications are being submitted through the Dastak app, with January 26, 2026, set as the deadline.
However, the decision has also sparked debate. Critics argue that attaching political names to public assets may deepen political polarization in an already divided society, turning personal vehicles into moving political statements. Supporters, on the other hand, say it is a voluntary process, a harmless status symbol, and a creative way to raise funds without burdening taxpayers.
Analysts note that while revenue generation is important, authorities must strike a fine balance so such initiatives do not fuel political rivalry or social friction on the streets.
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