The U.S. Congress criticized the Punjab Assembly’s resolution. In Supplementary Budget 2023-24, 37 of the assembly’s grant demands were passed.
Suspension of Members Protested by Opposition PunjabÂ
The opposition boycotted sitting in protest against the suspension of 11 members. They staged a sit-in at the assembly gate and held their session, during which they passed a resolution against the Defamation Bill. Security personnel stopped suspended opposition MNAs from entering the premises. They banged on gates and raised slogans in protest.
Resolution Against U.S. Congress PunjabÂ
Government member Ahsan Raza Khan presented a resolution condemning the U.S. Congress’ resolution. The resolution said that the American decision attempts to interfere in Pakistan’s internal matters, which may disturb peace here. It aimed to make Pakistan’s general elections controversial. The resolution asserted that all Pakistani institutions believe in freedom of expression.
The resolution further claimed that the U.S. resolution was part of a Jewish conspiracy brought forth by the Jewish lobby to promote instability in the country. The assembly approved the resolution.
Supplementary Budget Approval
The assembly approved demands for grants totaling Rs. 1.194 trillion in the supplementary budget. Opposition members boycotted the proceedings after being denied permission to speak. The Punjab Assembly session started with a two-hour delay. Opposition member Rana Aftab attempted to talk about a point of order, which led to an uproar from the government members. The Speaker invited the opposition to present their cut motions during the supplementary budget proceedings, which led to further chaos as government members stood up and caused a commotion. Government member Ahsan Raza tore up copies of the agenda.
Opposition Walkout
Opposition members Mushtaq and Rana Aftab challenged the Speaker to suspend government members if he had the courage. Subsequently, the opposition boycotted the proceedings and walked out. The Speaker adjourned the session indefinitely after completing the agenda.
Symbolic Assembly and Resolutions
Members of the Sunni Ittehad Council held their symbolic session. During the session, Qazi Ahmed Akbar presented a resolution rejecting the Defamation Bill, which was approved. They also passed a motion against suspending the 11 members by a majority vote.
Speaker’s Remarks
Meanwhile, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed criticized the previous government for not appointing the then-opposition leader Hamza Shahbaz as Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, questioning Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi’s decision. Speaking to the media, the Speaker stated that unruly behavior, unparliamentary language, and conduct are unacceptable in the sacred assembly.
