Business Desk 
May 16, 2025
An undated image. — Pexels
With the internet buzzing with reports misinforming about the unacceptability of banknotes marked with pen or handwriting, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has addressed the matter and strongly refuted such claims.
The SBP's clarification comes in response to a disruptive frenzy stirred across social media platforms by fake notifications recently.
Addressing such fabricated claims, Noor Ahmed, SBP's chief spokesperson, stated that these claims are baseless and no official notification was issued in this regard.
The central bank earlier advised the public against defacing currency, particularly in 2014 when it warned against writing political slogans on notes. This warning was issued after a call from Pakistan Awami Tehreek leader Tahirul Qadri to circulate currency notes reading “Go Nawaz Go” slogan on them, The Express Tribune reported.
The authority had, at the time, reiterated that damaged or disfigured currency is illegal and that individuals would be responsible for any financial loss incurred from using it. Banks were also directed to monitor and reject any currency displaying political slogans.
It was also emphasised that currency notes are a national asset and should be treated appropriately.
