Punjab Assembly has announced significant changes to its parliamentary rules, including the introduction of the National Anthem to be played before each session and for the first time the anthem was played prior to assembly sittings, following a format similar to that of the National Assembly.
Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan declared the National Anthem mandatory during assembly sessions and emphasized that these changes aim to enhance transparency and accountability within the assembly’s operations.
PA Speaker revealed that the Standing Committees will now have the authority to decide on public petitions independently, a move intended to streamline processes and improve efficiency. Budget expenditure details will be presented in the assembly every three months, ensuring better oversight.
Key changes also include a requirement for police to obtain permission from the Speaker before arresting a member of the assembly.
‘MPs can deliver speech in any language in PA’
Members will be permitted to speak in any language, in addition to Urdu and English, and the process for questions and answers will be implemented more timely.
The duration of annual budget discussions has been increased from four to five months, and Standing Committees will now have the option to conduct hearings openly, pending a passed order.
Speaker Malik Khan noted that these reforms were necessary to restore the powers of the Punjab Assembly following the 18th Amendment.
