The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has criticised the federal government over its handling of the Supreme Court’s order regarding the hospitalisation of PTI founder Imran Khan.
During the provincial assembly session chaired by Deputy Speaker Suriyya Bibi, treasury MPA Sajjad Barakwal alleged that the federal government had violated the SC’s directions by taking Imran to PIMS for a brief medical examination instead of Shifa International Hospital before returning him to prison.
Barakwal claimed the government was reluctant to allow Imran’s hospitalisation despite the court’s order for his examination and treatment by a multidisciplinary medical board. He also alleged that Imran’s personal physician had been denied access to him.
His speech was interrupted when PML-N opposition member Sobia Shahid pointed out a lack of quorum, triggering a heated exchange between treasury and opposition members. The deputy speaker ordered a headcount and later barred Shahid from entering the House after she continued speaking despite repeated warnings.
JUI-F MPA Adnan Khan defended Shahid, saying she had only pointed out the lack of quorum and had not violated any rule. He urged the chair to withdraw the ban and assured the opposition’s cooperation in maintaining order.
Earlier, treasury MPA Shafiullah raised concerns over difficulties faced by overseas Pakistanis returning to the country, alleging that some had been offloaded at airports over various reasons, including incomplete travel documents.
PTI MPA Abdul Karim claimed that hundreds of Pakistanis had been deported from the UAE and alleged that PTI supporters faced delays in passport renewals.
JUI-F’s Adnan Khan also alleged that the Intelligence Bureau had blocked passports of several Pakistanis and urged the assembly to adopt a resolution on the matter.
During Question Hour, minority MPA Askar Parvez questioned the accuracy of government data on religious minorities in KP, saying the figures did not match community records.
Parliamentary Secretary for Minority Affairs Sultan Room said the 2023 census recorded 154,967 non-Muslims in the province and that religion-wise data was available.
PPP MPA Shazia Tehmas Khan raised concerns over discrepancies in a government report regarding placer gold mining. Law Minister Aftab Alam Afridi said details of gold mining contracts had been provided and that one lease was suspended following observations by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).
The lawmaker requested that the matter be referred to the relevant assembly committee, which was subsequently done.
Another MPA, Ashbar Jan Jadoon, questioned the government over alleged illegal mining and the registration of FIRs. The minister said action was being taken and that proposed amendments aimed at increasing penalties were awaiting approval.
The assembly later passed the KP Promotion of Digital Payments Bill, 2026 before the session was adjourned until Monday.
