ISLAMABAD - The Senate, which resumed Thursday with Chairman Syed Nayar Hussain Bukhari, discussed peace talks between the government and Taliban, privatization of loss-making state enterprises and Karachi Operation.
PPP parliamentary leader Mian Raza Rabbani drew attention of the treasury benches saying that an explanation from the government was still awaited regarding the statement of PTI chief Imran Khan that there were only 40 per cent chances of success of an operation.  He said that around 35 terrorist attacks have been reported following the peace talks with Taliban, adding that over 120 people have been martyred in different bomb attacks.
Later, the opposition members staged a symbolic walkout over the remarks of Imran Khan.
Leader of Opposition Aitzaz Ahsan said that the government was seen completely paralyzed, saying that the attacks continued despite government's talks with the Taliban.
Responding to the points of order, Leader of the House in the Senate Raja Zafarul Haq said there is national consensus to seriously take forward the dialogue process in order to root out terrorism from the country. He was of the view that some foreign elements want to sabotage the dialogue process.
He said that there are also reports that a neighbouring country has spread its network in the country and providing arms and finances to different elements to destabilize the country. He said the government is alive to the situation to foil these nefarious designs.
About the threats received by different parliamentarians‚ Raja Zafar said that he will raise this issue with the Ministry of Interior so that security could be ensured to the parliamentarians.
Later, the Senate resumed discussion on a motion regarding privatization policy of the government.
Commencing on the debate‚ Rabbani described the government's privatization policy as anti-worker. He said the government should enhance its tax net by imposing tax on affluent class and the money generated from it should be spent to transform the state-owned enterprises into profitable entities.
Jaffar Iqbal said the loss-making institutions are a burden on the national exchequer and the present government decision to privatize them is a step in right direction.
Saeed Ghani said the private sector‚ instead of purchasing stated owned entities‚ should be encouraged to establish their own institutions.Talha Mehmoud appreciated the government for making top-level appointments in public sector organizations on the basis of merit.
Nasreen Jalil supported the privatization policy of the government but said rights of employees should be protected in the process besides ensuring transparency.
As the Chair announced adjournment of the House till Friday the MQM members staged a protest against the arrests of party workers and chanted slogans against the illegal actions against their party colleagues in Karachi.