LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz urged Supreme Court (SC) judges to let Pakistan progress following apex court’s verdict on Sunni Ittehad Council’s appeals, declaring Imran Khan-founded PTI eligible for seats reserved for women and minorities.

“One who is being brought back is nation’s criminal,” she said while apparently referring to PTI founder Imran Khan-who is currently incarcerated in May 9 riots cases. She alleged that when the country starts to stabilise, some individuals become uncomfortable and make decisions that hinder progress.

She questioned Supreme Court’s judgment, asking if it was not cause of instability, then what was? She also criticised PTI-led government, saying that despite being in power for four years, they had caused unprecedented destruction. Maryam accused SC judges of rewriting Constitution to bring one person back to mainstream politics. “Constitution clearly states that floor crossing is not allowed, but Supreme Court’s decision says otherwise,” she added. “It was said that verdicts were announced according to their conscience,” she noted, adding that decisions should be as per Constitution, not according to person’s conscience. She claimed that top court gave PTI relief that party did not even seek. “Incumbent government will complete its five years’ tenure.

If anyone tries to create political instability, they will be dealt with iron hands,” Maryam warned.