ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Senate has passed the Anti-Terrorism Act (1997) Amendment Bill with a majority vote. The opposition strongly opposed the bill, staged a protest, and walked out of the House after their proposed amendments were rejected.
The session, chaired by Deputy Chairman Syedal Nasir, saw Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry present the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2025. Opposition members termed the bill unconstitutional and against fundamental rights.
PTI Senator Barrister Ali Zafar opposed the bill, arguing that it was against Islamic teachings and the principles of justice. He warned that where there is no justice, terrorism grows.
He said the bill should remain confined to defining terrorism and cautioned against hasty legislation, as it could be misused against political opponents and dissenters.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the bill, saying the country is burning in the fire of terrorism and the government has a responsibility to protect the youth. He added that several amendments have already been made to this law in the past, while Section 4 empowers federal and provincial governments to call in the army. He clarified that under sub-article one, the accused would retain the right to legal counsel.
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PPP Senator Sherry Rehman supported the bill, stressing the need to pass it since the country is engaged in a major battle against terrorism. She maintained that efforts are being made to ensure justice in accordance with the Constitution.
MQM Senator Faisal Subzwari remarked that the roots of terrorism in Pakistan often strengthened due to compromises.
Opposition Senator Kamran Murtaza moved amendments, including a proposal to refer the bill to the Council of Islamic Ideology, but the House rejected them.
After debate, the Senate approved the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2025 by majority vote.
Other legislation passed
The Senate also unanimously approved an amendment to the Petroleum Act 1934, presented by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervez Malik. Additionally, it extended the duration of the CDA (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 and the National Food Safety Authority Ordinance 2025 by 120 days.
Senate donates salaries for flood relief
After the bill’s passage, the opposition walked out. During the session, the Senate Chairman announced that members had decided to donate five days of their salaries for flood victims. The Law Minister pledged his full monthly salary and urged others to contribute as well.
JUI-F Senators Dilawar Khan and Ahmad Khan supported the Anti-Terrorism Amendment Bill, earning thanks from the Law Minister.