In response to the recent arrests of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers from within the Parliament House, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq took decisive action by forming a high-level investigation committee.
This move comes amid rising concerns over the sanctity and security of the legislative body.
According to sources, the committee, which will be led by Sergeant-at-Arms Ashfaq Ahmed, has been tasked with conducting a thorough review of the incidents that led to the arrests. Sources indicate that the committee will compile and present a detailed report on merit to Speaker Sadiq, outlining the findings and suggesting appropriate actions.
The speaker has issued clear directives to the committee, emphasizing the importance of identifying any individuals involved in activities outside the Parliament House that could undermine its dignity. He has instructed the committee to gather all available evidence, including CCTV footage from within the House.
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“The dignity of parliament is paramount, and anyone responsible for compromising it will face severe consequences,” Speaker Sadiq was quoted as saying by sources.
On Tuesday, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq convened an urgent meeting in his chambers to address the recent arrests of lawmakers from within the Parliament House.
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During the meeting, Sadiq expressed his strong displeasure with Islamabad's Inspector General of Police Ali Nasir Rizvi over the arrests, demanding an explanation for the actions taken inside the Parliament House. He directed to take measures to ensure the release of the arrested members, sources said.
"Why the members were arrested inside the Parliament House? This is intolerable. Conduct a detailed inquiry into the entire matter," the speaker directed.
The speaker made it clear that while the police holds the authority to detain individuals outside the parliament, any arrests within Parliament Lodges and the Parliament House are "unacceptable" and will not be tolerated. "I will not stand the ridicule and humiliation of my members," he told the police chief in a stern conversation.
