PTI submits resolution against Altaf in Punjab Assembly

PTI disallowed from tabling resolution against MQM chief Altaf Hussain in Sindh Assembly

LAHORE/ KARACHI: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) submitted a resolution in the Punjab Assembly on Monday condemning Muttahida Qaumi Movement chief Altaf Hussain’s disparaging remarks against the military but was disallowed to do the same in the Sindh Assembly.

Opposition leader of the Punjab Assembly Mian Mehmoodur Rasheed along with deputy parliamentary leader Sabtain Khan submitted the resolution in the Punjab Assembly.

However, in the Sindh Assembly, Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani disallowed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) from tabling the resolution condemning Altaf for using unsavoury remarks against the military.

Meanwhile, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly unanimously passed a resolution against Altaf, calling the federal government to take notice of the MQM chief's 'provocative speech' against national institutions. The resolution was submitted by Jamaat-e-Islami leader Inayatullah.

In his televised speech on Friday, the mercurial MQM leader criticised the military and said the party had always been discriminated against. The controversial speech drew sharp reaction from all quarters including the top brass of the Pakistan Army.

Read: Altaf’s speech: Khurshid Shah condemns statements against army

Approach the British govt

Identifying Altaf as a British citizen, the resolution submitted by PTI in the Punjab assembly condemned MQM supremo’s remarks against the armed forces.

The resolution called upon the house to condemn Altaf’s comments, which aim at creating prejudice against the armed forces. It also calls upon the federal government to take up the issue with the British government through diplomatic channels.

Walk out in Sindh assembly

After being barred from tabling the resolution, members of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Muslim League-Functional (PML-F) and PTI staged a walk out.

The resolution stated that Altaf's comments were a call for instigation of violence and terror among masses. Further, it rejected negative propaganda against national institutions including the Army.

Members of Parliament who were signatories to the resolution included Sorath Thebo, Shafi Jamot, Liaquat Jatoi, Ameer Hyder Shah, Shahreyar Mahar, Imtiaz Shaikh, Mehtab Akbar Rashidi and Hafeezuddin.

On May 2, a condemnation resolution against MQM chief was presented by Balochistan Home Minister Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti in Balochistan Assembly. It was supported by both government and political parties.

Read: Balochistan Assembly passes resolution condemning Altaf's anti-Army statement