By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE – The Punjab Assembly session on Tuesday witnessed fresh controversy as another opposition member, Ijaz Shafi, was suspended for 15 sittings after allegedly using unparliamentary language. The suspension was ordered by Acting Speaker Zaheer Iqbal Chanar.
Read also: Chaos erupts in Punjab Assembly: Opposition member slaps govt MPA, suspensions follow
The session began with a routine delay of two and a half hours under the chairmanship of Acting Speaker Zaheer Iqbal Chanar. Deputy Opposition Leader Moin Riaz Qureshi raised concerns in the House, alleging that police raids were being carried out at the residences of opposition workers and leaders ahead of their planned protest on August 5.
In response, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman stated that he would look into the matter with the relevant departments. “They have the constitutional right to protest peacefully,” he said, adding, “If the allegations are true, we will stand with them.”
Tensions escalated when Acting Speaker Chanar referred to remarks made by Ijaz Shafi in a previous sitting. “Ijaz Shafi hurt the sentiments of our sister and has not apologized. Under Rule 210, I suspend him for 15 sittings,” Chanar declared. The remark in question reportedly involved Shafi telling government member Hassan Riaz, “Thank our sister DC, who made you an MPA through Form 47.”
While talking to the media, Ijaz Shafi questioned the decision. “I don’t understand how the word ‘sister’ is considered unparliamentary,” he said.
Meanwhile, the House passed two bills by suspending routine proceedings:
- Punjab Horticulture Authority Bill 2025
- Punjab Essential Commodities Price Control (Amendment) Bill 2025
Both bills were approved by majority vote. After completing the day’s agenda, Acting Speaker Zaheer Iqbal Chanar prorogued the session.
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