ISLAMABAD: The Senate on Monday witnessed a heated confrontation between government and opposition lawmakers over the treatment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The issue came up after PTI Senator Barrister Ali Zafar sought to move a resolution about Khan’s treatment at Al-Shifa Hospital.

Deputy Chairman Syedal Khan did not allow the resolution to be taken up. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar also opposed the move.

Tarar said the matter was already before the courts. He pointed out that the PTI had itself filed a contempt petition over the issue.

“If the matter is before the court, why is a resolution being moved in the Senate?” the law minister asked.

The Deputy Chairman also said the Senate Secretariat had not received prior notice about the proposed resolution.

The Leader of the Opposition then stood up and sought permission to speak. The Deputy Chairman refused, saying the matter was pending before the court.

The decision angered PTI senators. They stood up and protested against the ruling.

The opposition members continued their protest as Senator Abdul Qadir introduced a bill seeking further amendments to the Members of Parliament Salaries and Allowances Act, 1974.

PTI senators said they would not allow the House to continue under the circumstances. The opposition then walked out of the Senate.

After the walkout, Senator Mushaal drew attention to the lack of quorum. The Deputy Chairman ordered a headcount.

The count showed that the required number of senators was not present. The Senate was therefore declared inquorate.

The Deputy Chairman adjourned the session until 11:00 am on Tuesday.

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