Replies sought on MPA's plea against suspension

The Lahore High Court has sought replies within two weeks on a petition filed by PTI's MPA Chaudhry Ijaz Shafi challenging his suspension from the Punjab Assembly under Rule 210.

Justice Khalid Ishaq heard the matter.

The petitioner's lawyer argued that Rule 210 of the Assembly Rules is contrary to Articles 127, 17, and 64 of the Constitution, contending that the Speaker has no authority to suspend a member beyond 15 days.

The court issued notice to the Advocate General Punjab and directed respondents to file replies within the stipulated time.

Meanwhile, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) extended the interim bail of former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry till October 24 in five cases pertaining to torching of police vehicles near Mughalpura, Zaman Park and Jinnah House.

The cases allege that Chaudhry incited party workers to commit arson and violence.

He appeared in court to mark his attendance.

The court has already directed his lawyer to advance arguments on the bail pleas.