MULTAN  –  Renowned Saraiki poet Shakir Shujabadi has called upon the government to arrange for advanced medical treatment for him, saying that despite receiving recognition and appreciation from successive political leaders, no practical steps have been taken to facilitate his treatment abroad. He expressed these views during a visit by Saraikistan Qaumi Party Chairman Zahoor Dhareja, who called on the veteran poet at his residence to inquire after his health. Naveed Shakir, Arshad Noorpuri, Ayaz Mahmood Dhareja and Akhtar Noorpuri were also present. Speaking on the occasion, Zahoor Dhareja described Shakir Shujabadi as a “national asset” and said his prolonged illness and the lack of official attention to his treatment were a matter of serious concern. Shakir Shujabadi said his health had deteriorated considerably. Referring to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, he said she had expressed admiration for his poetry but appealed for practical support for his medical treatment. The celebrated poet thanked Zahoor Dhareja for writing a book on his life and literary contributions, saying it would prove valuable for researchers and students working on Saraiki literature. Highlighting the significance of the publication, Zahoor Dhareja said the book had been written to meet the academic needs of research scholars, who had access to Shakir Shujabadi’s poetry but lacked authentic material on his life and personality. He said the five-chapter book covers the poet’s biography, literary work, personal life, interpretation of his poetry, selected verses, awards, interviews and honours. He also called for greater official recognition of Shakir Shujabadi’s literary services, including the publication of his works by government institutions and the establishment of literary institutions to honour prominent Saraiki writers and poets. Dhareja expressed satisfaction that his long-cherished desire to document the life and achievements of the distinguished poet had been fulfilled, adding that despite his ill health, Shakir Shujabadi personally unveiled the book.