KARACHI: Heated exchanges disrupted proceedings in the Sindh Assembly on Monday as treasury and opposition lawmakers traded accusations during a lengthy debate on the provincial budget.
At one stage, tensions rose so sharply that members came close to a physical confrontation.
Minister restrained during opposition speech
The atmosphere turned tense during a speech by MQM-P lawmaker Farhan Ansari.
His remarks drew a strong reaction from Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon, who shouted from his seat.
The minister then moved towards the opposition benches, but fellow treasury lawmakers intervened and stopped him.
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Government members later demanded an apology over what they called unparliamentary language.
Soon after, MQM-P lawmakers staged a walkout.
The move followed Law Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar’s request to remove the entire speech from the official record.
Speaker orders review of remarks
After taking the chair, Speaker Syed Awais Qadir Shah addressed the issue.
The law minister raised a point of order and called for an inquiry into remarks made during the speech.
He alleged that the speaker had heard threats during the debate and asked him to supervise the inquiry personally.
The speaker said he had reviewed the matter in his chamber and would examine video footage before making a decision.
He described the remarks as inappropriate and asked officials to submit full details.
MQM-P lawmaker Taha Ahmed supported an inquiry but argued that the house should hear all sides.
He said the investigation should also examine what triggered the exchange.
The opposition member called for equal action if other speeches also contained objectionable language.
Lawmakers continue budget debate
Despite the disruptions, the Assembly continued its discussion on the provincial budget.
A total of 38 lawmakers took part in the fourth day of debate.
Industries and Commerce Minister Jam Ikramullah Dharejo defended the budget and described it as balanced despite economic challenges.
He said the provincial government released funds for victims of the Gul Plaza incident.
The minister also criticised the federal government over gas shortages and infrastructure problems.
Ministers outline development plans
Social Welfare Minister Mir Tariq Talpur highlighted programmes for senior citizens and child protection.
He said the department expanded shelter services and treatment initiatives.
Zakat and Auqaf Minister Riaz Shah Sherazi said development schemes were moving ahead and the department would continue further work in the next fiscal year.
He added that the government had allocated funding for projects aimed at reducing sea intrusion.
Universities and Boards Minister Mohammad Ismail Rahoo said higher education capacity had expanded in recent years.
He said student enrolment had risen significantly.
Opposition criticises budget priorities
MQM-P member Maaz Mehboob criticised the development budget and questioned allocations for Karachi.
He raised concerns over delays in major transport projects.
The opposition lawmaker also pointed to crime figures and questioned support for youth initiatives.
He said concerns remained over public services and infrastructure.
After the debate, the speaker adjourned the house until Tuesday.
