Sindh Assembly Dismisses All Opposition Resolutions on Private Members' Day
In a significant session of the Sindh Assembly on Tuesday, all resolutions tabled by opposition members were rejected during Private Members' Day. The proceedings highlighted ongoing debates over environmental issues, social policies, and governance matters in the province.
Environmental and Social Proposals Face Opposition
MQM-P lawmaker Amir Siddiqui proposed a resolution urging action against untreated sewage flowing into Karachi's sea. He emphasized the need for improvements in sewerage systems and wastewater treatment to protect marine ecosystems and public health. However, Provincial Minister Jam Khan Shoro opposed the motion, noting that the issue had been discussed repeatedly in the past. He pointed out that government projects, including the TP-4 initiative, are already in progress to address these concerns. Consequently, the resolution was rejected by the assembly.
Another MQM member, Aneel Kaimkhani, called for a province-wide ban on alcohol sales and the cancellation of liquor licenses. Law and Home Minister Zia Lanjar opposed this resolution, remarking that such a move would deprive a large section of society. He added, "my friend seems a little emotional today," leading to the dismissal of the proposal by the House.
Further Rejections and Ministerial Responses
MQM-P legislator Quratulain Khan presented two resolutions, both of which were also rejected. The first resolution advocated for introducing life-based skill learning programs to curb sexual violence and child harassment. Home Minister Zia Lanjar argued that the resolution was unclear and split into two parts, urging revision before it could be considered seriously.
Her second resolution proposed forming a committee to review the performance of the Sindh Building Control Authority. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar opposed this, stating that a committee already exists to oversee such matters, rendering the new proposal unnecessary.
Apologies and Criticisms Over Police Conduct
Amid these rejections, Law and Home Minister Zia Lanjar addressed issues related to police conduct. He apologized to PTI MPA Wajid Hussain for police excesses during the February 8 protest. Speaking in the Sindh Assembly, Lanjar expressed regret over the incident and confirmed that the Station House Officer (SHO) and staff involved had been removed from their positions.
Lanjar also announced an inquiry into the arrest of Jamaat-e-Islami MPA Muhammad Farooq, assuring that any officials found responsible would face appropriate action. However, he criticized the blocking of Shahrah-e-Faisal during the protest, noting that loudspeakers were installed and both tracks were closed, causing severe hardship for commuters overnight. "This is not responsible behaviour," he remarked, adding that courts have directed terrorism cases against those who shut down major roads.
Furthermore, the minister condemned incidents where lawyers stormed police stations and party workers occupied SHO chairs, warning that such actions would not be tolerated in the future.
