The session, presided over by Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, commenced with a quorum pointed out by Senator Shahadat Awan. Tensions quickly escalated as PTI lawmakers chanted slogans such as “PPP ki munafiqat na manzoor” (PPP’s hypocrisy is unacceptable), while opposition members, including PPP senators, gathered near the chairman’s podium to voice their protest.
As shouts of “Pani pe daka na manzoor” (robbery of water is unacceptable) filled the chamber, PPP senators exited the session in protest of the canal project.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar continued addressing the session amid the uproar. He assured that the issue concerning the construction of canals from the Indus River would be addressed through dialogue, not unilateral action. “This reaction seems to stem from losing the Tharparkar election,” he remarked, suggesting political motives behind the protest.
He further stated that PPP leaders were already in contact with Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah and that the matter would be handled according to legal and constitutional provisions. He called on PPP lawmakers to rejoin the session and participate in constructive discussion rather than resorting to protests. “Nothing will be bulldozed,” he emphasized.
Earlier in the session, a prayer was offered for the Pakistani victims of a road accident in Saudi Arabia, led by Maulana Abdul Waseh. The house also observed a minute of silence in mourning for Pope Francis, the spiritual head of the global Christian community.
Additionally, a lawyers’ protest in Khairpur against the canal project entered its fourth consecutive day.
Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani also announced the panel of presiding officers, naming Senators Sherry Rehman, Irfan Siddiqui, and Saleem Mandviwalla.
Prayers were offered for the departed mother of Senator Faisal Sabzwari and the father of Senator Palwasha Khan.
