DACCA: The award of “Hilal-i-Pakistan”, decoration to Mr Z.A. Bhutto, former Foreign Minister of Pakistan now in detention under the Defence of Pakistan Rules, echoed in the National Assembly during the Question Hour here today [Feb 7].

A question was asked on behalf of Maulvi Farid Ahmed (Nizam-e-Islam) as to whether Mr Bhutto was decorated with any civil award. If so what was the name of the award.

Mr Mohammad Shahidullah, Parliamentary Secretary to the Establishment Division replied: yes “Hilal-i-Pakistan”.

Mr Hassan A. Sheikh (CML) asked where is this Hilal-i-Pakistan now.

Khwaja Shahabuddin, Minister for Information and Broadcasting: As far as this supplementary is concerned it is the duty of the intelligence department to find out where a person is located.

Mr Hassan A. Sheikh: Will the Minister be pleased to state whether or not this Hilal-i-Pakistan is now in jail detained under the Defence of Pakistan laws.

Khwaja Shahabuddin: If the honourable member is aware of the fact, no answer is required from me.

Mr Hassan A. Sheikh (CML): How many Hilal-i-Pakistans have renounced this decoration?

Khwaja Shahabuddin: The information is not readily available.

Dr Aleem Al-Razee (Ind): Can you prescribe any punishment for any person who renounces Hilal-i-Pakistan? Is there any punishment prescribed for it?

Khwaja Shahabuddin: I do not think there is any penalty for a person who renounces the title!

Shah Azizur Rehman, Deputy Leader of the Opposition: May I know what are the attributes that entitle a person to be the recipient of Hilal-i-Pakistan.

Khwaja Shahabuddin: For different orders, there are different requirements prescribed. I have not got all the details readily available with me and if the honourable member wants, it can be supplied to him for his information. — Agency

Published in Dawn, February 8th, 2019