Introduction
BISP cash transfers have helped many poor women in Pakistan for many years. This money supports food, education, and basic household needs. It also reduces stress inside families.
In late 2025, more than 820,000 women were removed from the BISP program after new verification. Because of this, many families are now facing financial pressure in 2026. This situation has raised serious concerns about Intimate Partner Violence (IPV).
This article explains:
- What BISP is
- Why changes happened
- How the loss of BISP money can increase domestic violence
- What women can do to stay safe
What Is BISP and Why Is It Important?
The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is Pakistan’s largest welfare program. It gives cash money directly to poor women.
Main Goals of BISP
- Reduce poverty
- Help women manage household expenses
- Support children’s education through Taleemi Wazaif
- Reduce stress in poor families
For many homes, BISP is the only stable income. That is why it is very important in 2026.
What Is IPV (Intimate Partner Violence)?
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) means abuse by a husband or partner. It can be:
- Physical violence
- Emotional abuse
- Mental pressure
- Economic abuse (controlling money)
Money problems are one of the biggest reasons behind domestic fights.
How Cash Support Helps Reduce Violence
Studies around the world show that when women receive regular cash support:
- Family stress becomes lower
- Arguments reduce
- Women feel more confident
- Men feel less pressure to provide alone
Because of this, BISP does more than give money.
It also helps protect women from violence.
How BISP Cash Acts as a Safety Net
1. Less Financial Stress
Regular BISP payments help families pay for:
- Food
- Medicine
- School fees
When money stress is low, fights also reduce.
2. Better Decision Power for Women
When women receive money in their own name:
- They can manage small expenses
- They depend less on husbands
- They can save for emergencies
This gives women more respect and voice inside the home.
3. Better Mental Well-Being
Men also feel less pressure when money comes regularly.
This reduces anger and frustration in the household.
What Happened After BISP Payments Stopped?
In December 2025, many women were removed from BISP after NSER verification. Their PMT score increased, showing better economic status on paper.
Problems Caused by Sudden Removal
- Loss of monthly income
- Increase in household stress
- More arguments at home
- Less money for children’s education
The Risk of “Extractive Violence”
One serious risk is extractive violence.
How It Happens
- Husband thinks BISP money is still coming
- The woman is blamed for losing the payment
- Accusations start
- Violence may follow
This risk becomes higher when families are not informed properly about BISP removal.
Impact on Children
When BISP stops, children also suffer.
Common Problems
- School dropout
- Loss of Taleemi Wazaif
- Poor food quality
- Stress inside the home
When children suffer, family conflict increases, which can lead to IPV.
What Research Says (2025–2026)
Research done in districts like Layyah shows:
- Some women still feel confident after BISP removal
- Many women were not informed clearly
- Poor communication increases anger and violence
Experts say clear information can reduce household conflict.
Government Steps to Protect Women
Domestic Violence Bill 2025
This law was passed in November 2025.
It:
- Recognizes economic abuse as a crime
- Allows punishment up to 3 years
- Strengthens protection orders for women
BISP Appeals and Re-Verification
Removal from BISP is not final.
Women can:
- Visit BISP Tehsil Office
- Go to an Appraisal Center
- Request PMT reassessment
These steps help reduce fear and family tension.
What Women Should Do If Removed from BISP
Simple Steps
- Visit nearest BISP office
- Carry CNIC and household documents
- File an appeal if eligible
- Seek legal help if facing abuse
Frequently Asked Questions
Does BISP reduce domestic violence?
Yes. Studies show regular cash support reduces violence by lowering stress.
Why were many women removed in 2025?
Because of updated NSER data and higher PMT scores.
Can women appeal the BISP removal in 2026?
Yes. Appeals are allowed through Appraisal Centers.
What is economic abuse?
Controlling money, stopping access to funds, or punishing women financially.
Conclusion
BISP cash transfers are not just financial help.
They protect women, children, and families from stress and violence.
As Pakistan moves forward in 2026, clear communication, legal protection, and easy appeals are very important.
This will help families stay peaceful and safe.