Sher Zaman, a resident of Teela Band in Peshawar, appeared in a distressing video attempting to sell his children, sparking widespread outrage on social media.
The father’s outcry reached the ears of city officials, prompting swift administrative intervention. Zaman, previously employed at an inactive brick kiln for two years, has struggled significantly to provide for his family.
Plunged into deep poverty and facing starvation, loss of shelter, and despair, he felt compelled to consider a drastic and heartbreaking option.
“I am selling my children because my family is starving, and I can’t find work,” Zaman explained, visibly distraught. He described how torrential rains had collapsed the roof of his rented home, exacerbating his dire situation.
The video quickly captured the attention of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Peshawar, who took immediate action to assist the distressed father.
The DC invited Zaman to his office following the video’s circulation on social media. He assured that Zaman’s children would be placed in welfare institutions where they could receive proper education and care.
Additionally, the Chief Executive of Water and Sanitation Services Peshawar offered Zaman a job pending the submission of necessary documents.
Former provincial minister Aqil Shah contributed Rs150,000 to help alleviate the family’s financial hardships.
This incident has highlighted the severe challenges many impoverished families face in Peshawar, underscoring the critical need for substantial social welfare reforms to prevent such desperate situations in the future.
