PDM issues show cause notices to PPP, ANP; widening rift.

ISLAMABAD -- Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) has issued show cause notices to two component parties - Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and Awami National Party (ANP) - reports citing sources said Monday.

A show-cause letter typically requires the recipient to explain why they should not be subject to disciplinary action. However, it was not immediately clear on what grounds the notices were served.

It was reported last week, the notices will be served on the two parties for not attending the nine-party alliance's meeting on April 2 and violating its decision.

The issuance of show-cause notices to both parties was approved by Jamiat-e-Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman, who also heads the anti-government coalition. They were dispatched by PDM Secretary General Shahid Khaqan Abbasi.

Addressing reporters outside Parliament House on Monday, Abbasi said the notices to both parties have been issued. The notice issued to PPP will be delivered to its chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari whereas ANP's notice will be issued to party chief Asfandyar Wali Khan.

'The notices have been sent on WhatsApp. Hard copies will be handed over during today's Senate session,' the former prime minister said, adding that both the parties have been given seven days to respond to the notices.

'Whatever answer is received will be presented during a meeting of the opposition alliance's constituent parties,' he said and added: 'The PDM will decide the future course of action.'

Abbasi also said that it was written on the notice that the opposition alliance will not make it public. However, both the parties can make them public if they wish to do so, he said.

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