Spain's Constitutional Court on Thursday ordered the suspension of a planned session in Catalonia's parliament which separatist leaders have called for the region to declare independence.

Judges "ordered the suspension of the plenary that has been called for Monday in the (Catalan) parliament" while it hears an appeal by rival Catalan politicians, a spokeswoman said.

The court confirmed the decision in a written ruling.

Catalan lawmakers had summoned regional president Carles Puigdemont to address the parliament about last Sunday's contested independence referendum in Catalonia.

The court warned that any session carried out in defiance of its ban would be "null".

It said the parliament's leaders could face criminal action if they ignore the court order. Catalan leaders have said they are not afraid of going to jail.

Source: Khaleej Times