By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly witnessed a dramatic protest on Friday as opposition members, led by Opposition Leader Moin Riaz Qureshi, demonstrated against soaring inflation, with Qureshi entering the House carrying tomatoes to symbolize the rising prices of essential commodities.
The session, chaired by Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, was postponed for thirty-five minutes due to the government’s lack of interest. When the session resumed, Qureshi launched a scathing criticism of the government, condemning its failure to control inflation and deteriorating law and order.
He said that wheat and vegetables have gone beyond the reach of the common man due to the government’s ineffective economic policies. Qureshi also held the authorities responsible for the worsening air pollution and overall administrative mismanagement.
Earlier, while speaking to the media outside the Assembly, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan remarked that although Pakistan had hosted Afghan refugees for decades, their presence had now become an administrative challenge that the state must address. He added that he opposed banning any political party but stressed that violent behavior, such as attacks on police stations or public installations by groups like TLP or PTI, was unacceptable.
During the session, Imtiaz Sheikh’s arrival triggered a strong protest from the opposition, who claimed that his suspension was unlawful. Ijaz Shafi voiced sharp criticism of the government’s actions in this regard.
Chairperson Samiullah Khan later adjourned the session until 2 pm on Monday.
