Maryam Nawaz files Rs5 billion defamation claim against Chaudhry Salik Hussain

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has issued a legal notice to Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain, seeking Rs5 billion in damages following his allegations of corruption within the Punjab government. The legal action, initiated through her lawyer, characterizes the minister's remarks as baseless, unverified, and defamatory.

The dispute stems from an interview in which Chaudhry Salik Hussain claimed to have heard frequent stories of corruption in the province, suggesting that corruption files were accumulating. The legal notice asserts that the minister failed to provide evidence, documented incidents, or formal complaints to substantiate these claims. Legal notices were also sent to ARY News and its reporter regarding the broadcast.

In response, Chaudhry Salik Hussain has refused to retract his statements, maintaining that corruption is occurring in the province. He also addressed and rejected allegations that he attempted to interfere in the appointment of a Deputy Commissioner in Gujrat, clarifying that the official was already in the position. The minister further commented on the importance of humility in public office.