Senate Drops Violent Extremism Bill Amid Strong Opposition

The Prevention of Violent Extremism Bill faced strong opposition in Pakistan’s Senate, leading to its withdrawal by Senate chairperson Sadiq Sanjrani. The bill, introduced by the Minister of State for Law on behalf of the interior minister, prompted protests from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. Opposition members raised concerns that the legislation seemed to target their party, particularly the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and may have implications for democracy.

Despite agreeing with the bill’s objectives, some senators expressed reservations about its extensive scope and potential impact on all political parties and the general public. Chairman Sanjrani decided to drop the bill, citing opposition from the house.

Meanwhile, two other bills were passed, and three others were referred to relevant committees for further consideration. The Prevention of Violent Extremism Bill faced criticism on social media, with some senators expressing fears that it could increase violence and be used to suppress political leaders and parties.

آج Prevention of violent extremism act 2023،انسداد پرتشدد انتہاپسندی کابل سینیٹ @SenatePakistan میں پی ڈی ایم حکومت پیش کر رہی ہے۔ حکومت کے تیور بتا رہے ہیں کہ اس کو کمیٹی بھیجنے، اس پر بحث کرنے کی اجازت نہیں دیں گے اور اسی وقت اس کو پاس کر لیں گے۔ یہ ایک بہت ہی خوفناک بل ہے جس… pic.twitter.com/qSkIEbsC4A

— Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan | سینیٹر مشتاق احمد خان (@SenatorMushtaq) July 30, 2023

The senator expressed worry that this law seemed to be introduced in bad faith and questioned whether all political parties and leaders would have an equal opportunity to run in the 2019 general elections.

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According to Ahmad, the administration shouldn’t treat the legislature like a “rubber stamp” by notifying the appropriate committee about the measure.

Sania Nishtar, a senator for PTI, also vigorously opposed the measure.

“Large latitude and comprehensive indemnification for the government. No impartiality in the evaluation process. restrictions on personal liberty. Offences are not subject to bail, are cognizable, and cannot be compounded, she said.

Prevention of violent extremism bill @SenatePakistan:

Wide discretion & sweeping indemnity for the government.

No independence of review process

Curbs on individual freedoms

Offences are non bailable, cognizable & non compoundable

What are the implications for human… pic.twitter.com/nCzJBnYnu9

— Senator Dr Sania Nishtar (@SaniaNishtar) July 30, 2023

She questioned, “What are the implications for human rights, the right to a fair trial, freedom of expression, and chaddar aur char diwari values?”