By On Friday, senators strongly criticized the government’s decision to grant special powers to the army and civil armed forces in Balochistan, which includes the authority to detain terrorism suspects for up to three months. This development follows the federal cabinet’s recent amendment to the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) 1997 to enhance counterterrorism efforts.
During a parliamentary session, lawmakers voiced concerns that the new powers, which allow detention of ‘terror suspects’ for extended periods, could exacerbate tensions in Balochistan, especially after recent coordinated attacks in the region.
National Party Senator Jan Muhammad Buledi, speaking on a point of public importance, expressed disappointment that the parliamentary debate on engaging with disaffected Baloch youth resulted in a decision to increase security force powers. He criticized the proposed legislation for potentially enabling security personnel to conduct warrantless searches and arrests, fearing the government could misuse it. Buledi highlighted ongoing issues with enforced disappearances in Balochistan, arguing that the new law could legalize such practices and worsen the crisis.
Awami National Party chief Aimal Wali Khan rejected the new measures, warning that if passed, the law would likely face challenges in the Supreme Court for infringing on fundamental rights. He decried the timing of the legislation, suggesting it might legitimize enforced disappearances.
JUI-F lawmaker Kamran Murtaza also opposed the special powers, criticizing the government’s approach to Balochistan and expressing concern about recent decisions like the nighttime public transport ban in the province. He questioned the message this sends internationally, describing Balochistan as becoming a “no-go area.”
Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, Shibli Faraz, criticized the ruling coalition for introducing legislation that he deemed detrimental to the public interest, citing a bill regulating public assemblies in Islamabad as an example of “anti-people and anti-democracy” actions. Faraz also noted the PML-N coalition’s recent legislation, including the banning of electronic voting machines and the removal of NAB powers.
On a different note, the Senate adopted a resolution by PPP Senator Poonjo Bheel to mark Defence Day, affirming the nation’s solidarity with the armed forces and recognizing their sacrifices and readiness to face challenges.
