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Opposition Protests as NA Approves Over Rs 9.9 Trillion in Budget Demands
National Assembly erupts as opposition slams budget approvals. Rs 9.9tr passed, 750+ cut motions tossed. Govt stands by spending; opposition decries graft & inflation.
ND
by News Desk
2025-06-25
Opposition Protests as NA Approves Over Rs 9.9 Trillion in Budget Demands

The National Assembly on Wednesday approved more than Rs 9.9 trillion in budget demands for various ministries and divisions for the fiscal year 2025-26, amid loud protests and walkouts by the opposition. Over 750 cut motions presented by opposition members were rejected by a majority vote.

The session, chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, saw heated arguments, sloganeering, and book-banging on desks by PTI lawmakers and their allies. Opposition Leader Omar Ayub led the protest, decrying the government's "anti-people budget" and accusing it of failing to curb inflation, smuggling, and corruption.

“They are increasing levies, stealing from the people, and rewarding corrupt institutions,” Ayub said. “Meanwhile, 44% of the population lives below the poverty line, but the Prime Minister’s House grows more lavish.”

Tarar Hits Back: "No Power to Pardon Crimes"

Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar responded sharply to the opposition’s criticism, particularly regarding alleged preferential treatment of prisoners. He said the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights was not empowered to alter prison conditions or pardon convicts, referencing PTI founder Imran Khan (prisoner no. 804) multiple times.

“I wish I had the power to pardon attacks on government buildings or the Tosha Khana scandal,” he said, mocking opposition demands.

PTI members responded with chants of “liar, liar,” while Minister Ahsan Iqbal was seen filming the chaos on his phone. Despite the uproar, five budgetary demands worth Rs 1.7435 billion for the Human Rights Division were passed, and 96 cut motions were rejected.

Finance Division & Food Security Demands Approved

The Finance Division was a major focus of the session, with the opposition tabling 60 cut motions against its 14 demands. The government ultimately approved Rs 4,814 billion in demands for just four divisions.

Assembly member Alia Kamran raised concerns over FBR’s inefficiencies, citing insider tax evasion. Asad Qaiser (PTI) criticized tax implementation in former FATA districts, urging postponement until security improves.

In the food security debate, Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain highlighted the government’s focus on fertilizer subsidies, rice and wheat production, and agriculture reform. The Assembly approved Rs 34.4 billion in three demands for the Ministry of Food Security.

Talal Chaudhry Defends Interior Ministry

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry defended law enforcement and the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), revealing:

·       Rs 12 billion in drugs seized in one year.

·       285 human traffickers arrested.

·       19% drop in crime in Islamabad.

“If you come to Islamabad with sticks, of course there will be a crackdown,” he said, referencing past PTI protests.

Despite criticism, 125 opposition cut motions on Interior and Narcotics demands worth Rs 592 billion were rejected.

Finance Bill Vote Set for Tomorrow

With 136 demands approved over two days, totaling more than Rs 9.95 trillion, the stage is set for the final vote on the Finance Bill tomorrow. The government maintains the budget is “pro-growth and people-friendly,” but opposition leaders vow continued resistance.

 
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PakistanBudget2025

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