Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari on Friday filed a defamation case in the Defamation Tribunal Lahore against Opposition Leader in the Punjab Assembly Moeenuddin Riaz Qureshi, under the Punjab Defamation Act 2024.According to details, the minister is claiming Rs84 million in damages. The petition submitted to the court includes video recordings, screen captures, and transcripts as evidence.

It details general, punitive, and special damages sought from the defendant. The case follows statements made by Moeenuddin Riaz Qureshi on a private TV programme, alleging that 150–200 “paid individuals” were being brought into the assembly on her behalf. Azma Bokhari has termed these allegations baseless and fabricated, noting that the remarks were broadcast on television and widely shared on social media, reaching millions of viewers.

She argued that the statement had caused serious harm to her dignity and reputation and labeled the allegations as malicious, hostile, and irresponsible. The petition requests the court to order compensation and legal costs against Qureshi, stating that damaging the reputation of public figures with false claims is against the public interest.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)