Tuesday, July 2, 2024 03:21 PM
Punjab Assembly Raises Concerns Over Terrorism Charges
- Opposition criticizes inconsistent terrorism charges by Punjab police
- SIC member highlights inefficiency in applying terrorism charges
- Transport department criticized for inaccurate information, defends subsidies and plans
Image Credits: tribune_pkThe Punjab Assembly debates the inconsistent application of terrorism charges by police, highlighting the need for fair justice and transparent systems. Concerns also raised over transport department accuracy and plans for public services improvement.
The Opposition in the Punjab Assembly has voiced concerns over the handling of cases by the police, particularly focusing on the inconsistent application of terrorism charges. They pointed out instances where terrorism charges were brought against PTI lawmakers for peaceful protests, while a recent violent incident resulting in casualties did not lead to similar charges.
During a session, Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) member Farhat Abbas highlighted this issue through a call attention notice, criticizing the police for inefficiency and the absence of terrorism charges in the recent case. Despite the recovery of 70 bullet shells at the scene, the perpetrators were not charged under the Anti-Terrorism Act or trespass laws. Abbas stressed the importance of visible justice, especially as one of the attackers had surrendered but other suspects remained at large.
Deputy Speaker Zaheer Iqbal Channar assured the Assembly of delivering justice, while Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Mian Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman promised to visit the affected family and ensure the culprits are apprehended. In a separate discussion during the question hour, Treasury lawmakers criticized the transport department for providing inaccurate information in responses. Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan defended the department, highlighting the subsidies offered to passengers and plans to introduce electric and diesel hybrid buses in the province.
The session concluded with the Deputy Speaker adjourning the House until May 17 at 2 PM.
The concerns raised in the Punjab Assembly regarding the inconsistent application of terrorism charges shed light on the need for fair and transparent justice systems. It is essential for authorities to address these discrepancies to uphold the rule of law and ensure accountability. The commitment to serving justice and improving public services, as expressed by the Assembly members, reflects a step towards addressing these issues and fostering a more just society.
