NA: United against petrol price hike, allies, opposition walkout

Law will follow its course in Rimsha Masih's case, Rehman Malik tells NA.

ISLAMABAD: Key allies of the government along with the principal opposition party staged a walkout in the National Assembly’s session on Monday as they protested against the recent hike in prices of petroleum products.
Calling it an “unbearable increase,” the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and Awami National Party (ANP) protested along with the Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PML-N) on the first day of NA’s 45th session demanding that the government reverse the recent price hikes.
Dr Abdul Qadir Khanzada from the MQM said that the petroleum prices have been increased by as much as 25 per cent during the last two months, all without any consultations within the NA and relevant standing and special committees.
Syed Haider Ali Shah from the ANP noted that the government was earning as much as Rs30-35 per litre and demanded for the withdrawal of the recent increase.
Rimsha’s case
Amidst demands for the immediate release of Rimsha Masih, a Christian girl arrested on false charges of blasphemy, Interior Minister Rehman Malik promised to expose those behind the conspiracy on Tuesday.

Explaining why she had not been released, he said that the law needs to take its course as an FIR had already been registered against the girl.

Pakistan Muslim League – Quaid’s (PML-Q) Nosheen Saeed and MQM’s Waseem Akhtar asked the government to ensure Rimsha’s release after the arrest of prayer leader Khalid Jadoon on the charges of fabricating evidence.