PM will address reservations regarding Women Protection Act: Fazl

LAHORE, March 14: Amir Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) Maulana Fazlur Rehman called on Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Mian Muhammad Shabaz Sharif at Jati Umra Raiwind in Lahore and informed them about the reservations of the religious parties about the recently passed women protection bill by Punjab Assembly. Prime minister and chief minister assured Maulana Fazal to remove the un-Islamic and unconstitutional clauses of the women protection bill.
While talking to media persons after the meeting Maulana Fazal said Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has promised to addressed his reservations and make amendments to a legislation against domestic violence passed by the Punjab Assembly last month. Maulana said he has recorded his protest against the bill during the meeting with prime minister. Maulana Fazal said he informed the prime minister about the reservation, which he has already expressed in media about the bill. He said prime minister has ensured to take some steps his personal level so that the legislation at the centre level could be done through consensus.
The JUI-F chief said, “The Prime Minister heard our reservations against the law. He promised to amend the bill so that it does not contradict with the Quran, Sunnah and constitution of the country.”
He said that the prime minister had promised to form a committee which would look into the reservations of the religious parties, including the JUI-F. He said Punjab government has constituted committed headed by chief minister Punjab to address the reservations of the Ulema regarding the bill.
Prime Minister has given the assurance that all reservations pertaining to the Protection of Women against Violence Act, according to Fazlur Rehman. Maulana Fazal further said that the Prime Minister was apprised regarding the apprehensions that religious parties had towards the Women’s Protection Bill.
In response to a question, Maulana Fazlur Rehman stated that further plan of action will be decided in a sit-down with the heads of religious parties in Mansoora today (Tuesday). Maulana said that he would brief the ulema and leaders of the religious parties and decision would be made with consultation regarding the matter.–SABAH