Sindh PA passes Infrastructure Cess Bill
The Sindh Assembly on Friday passed the Sindh Development and Maintenance of Infrastructure Cess Bill, while several other draft legislations were introduced and referred to the relevant standing committees for further consideration.
The session, chaired by Panel of Chairpersons member Rehana Laghari, began with members offering Fateha and paying tribute to Pakistan Army personnel martyred during last year's "Marka-e-Haq". The agenda did not include Question Hour.
During proceedings, MQM-Pakistan MPA Aamir Siddiqui moved an adjournment motion highlighting the growing presence of beggars at traffic signals in Karachi and calling for strict legal action. However, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar opposed the motion, terming it a matter not of urgent public importance. The chair subsequently rejected the motion.
Later, the law minister laid before the House bills approved by the provincial governor, including the Sindh Shops and Commercial Establishment (Amendment) Bill, which was referred to the relevant standing committee.
He also tabled the Sindh Development and Maintenance of Infrastructure Cess Bill, stating that it had been introduced in consultation with the business community. "A large number of traders have agreed to pay the cess," he said, adding that the matter had remained pending for the past two months and was now being brought again for approval.
During the presentation, Jamaat-e-Islami MPA Muhammad Farooq continued speaking, leading to noise in the House. Despite the disruption, the minister proceeded with clause-wise consideration, and the bill was subsequently passed by the assembly.
A bill relating to the protection of human rights was also introduced. The minister said proposals include induction of judges into the Sindh Human Rights Commission, an increase in the age limit, and enhancement of the number of assembly members on the commission from two to three.
Following brief proceedings, the session was adjourned till Monday at 2pm.