PTI stages a protest in the house against staff of Imran’s sisters in Adiala Jail
ISLAMABAD:
The National Assembly session on Wednesday was marred by protests, quorum challenges and heated exchanges between the Treasury and opposition members, eventually forcing the Speaker to adjourn proceedings indefinitely.
During question hour, PPP lawmaker Agha Rafiullah criticized the government and claimed that despite the efforts of members in preparing questions, the answers were vague and unhelpful.
He argued that parliamentary practice was far from what democratic procedures prescribe. “What’s in the books — not even ten percent of it happens here,” he said. He also challenged the government to call FBR’s toll-free helpline directly from the House to test its functionality.
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry defended the government and stated that detailed replies had been filed. He described Rafiullah’s remarks as “political” and said he was willing to test the free number outside the chamber.
As the arguments continued, PTI lawmakers entered the house carrying photographs of their party founder and started chanting slogans.
Opposition members demanded a point of order, which chairman panel Ali Zahid rejected during question time.
PTI’s Iqbal Afridi repeatedly pointed out the quorum, prompting the staff to count members. Although quorum was initially complete, Afridi raised the objection again. Another count confirmed that only 63 lawmakers were present.
As PPP legislators protested, the Speaker Panel adjourned the meeting indefinitely.
