Zartaj Gul
ISLAMABAD: During a session of Pakistan’s National Assembly (NA), tension erupted when PML-Q’s Tariq Bashir Cheema allegedly used abusive language towards Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) leader Zartaj Gul.
The confrontation unfolded when Cheema’s speech was interrupted by Gul, who referenced the Bahawalpur incident.
This interruption apparently led to a heated exchange between Cheema and Gul, escalating into verbal insults. The situation further intensified when members of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) staged a protest against the incident.
In response to the uproar, Speaker Ayaz Sadiq and PML-N leader Tariq Fazal Chaudhry extended apologies to the SIC members.
Meanwhile, a meeting of SIC leaders convened in the Speaker National Assembly Chamber, where PTI leaders Zartaj Gul and Shandana Gulzar demanded to file an FIR regarding the altercation.
Sources close to the situation revealed that the SIC members called for the suspension of Tariq Basheer Cheema as an NA member until the budget session. However, the Speaker proposed suspending Cheema until the next meeting of the session.
In reaction, the SIC issued a warning of protests if the Speaker did not take appropriate action.
Zartaj Gul, reacting to the incident, emphasized that being a woman is not a weakness but a strength, highlighting the importance of women representation in Parliament.
She disclosed that Cheema had unconditionally apologized to her, and, following Eastern traditions, she had forgiven him.
She expressed gratitude to all political parties, including the PML-N, for their support. However, Gul underscored that Cheema’s approach to her seat and his inappropriate behavior should not have occurred.
The incident underscores the importance of maintaining decorum and respect within parliamentary proceedings, as well as the need for prompt and fair resolution of disputes.
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