PTI stages protest in house against manhandling of Imran’s sisters at Adiala Jail
ISLAMABAD:
The National Assembly session on Wednesday was marred by protests, quorum challenges and heated exchanges between treasury and opposition members, eventually forcing the chair to adjourn proceedings indefinitely.
During question hour, PPP lawmaker Agha Rafiullah criticised the government, claiming that despite members’ efforts in preparing questions, the answers provided were vague and unhelpful.
He argued that parliamentary practice was far removed from what democratic procedures prescribe. “What is written in booksnot even ten percent of it happens here,” he said. He also challenged the government to call the FBR toll-free helpline live from the house to test its functionality.
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry defended the government, stating that detailed responses had been submitted. He described Rafiullah’s remarks as “political” and said he was willing to test the toll-free number outside the chamber.
As arguments continued, PTI lawmakers entered the house holding photographs of their party founder and began chanting slogans.
Opposition members demanded a point of order, which the Panel of Chair Ali Zahid refused during question hour.
PTI’s Iqbal Afridi repeatedly pointed out the quorum, prompting staff to count members. Although quorum was initially completed, Afridi raised the objection again. A second count confirmed that only 63 lawmakers were present.
As PPP lawmakers protested, the panel of chair adjourned the sitting indefinitely.
