Following the National Assembly, the Senate on Tuesday also passed the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2025, granting security forces the power to detain suspects for up to three months under ‘preventive custody’.

The session, chaired by Deputy Chairman Syedal Nasir, saw Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry present the bill, after which clause-by-clause approval began.

Opposition parties strongly opposed the legislation, terming it unconstitutional and a violation of fundamental rights.

Senator Kamran Murtaza moved amendments, including a proposal to send the bill to the Council of Islamic Ideology for review.

However, his amendments were rejected by a majority vote, prompting the opposition to stage a walkout from the chamber in protest.

Bill provisions

Under the bill, the armed forces and civil armed forces are empowered to detain individuals suspected of involvement in national security threats, kidnapping for ransom, targeted killings, or disturbing law and order for up to three months.

Investigations will be carried out by a Joint Investigation Team (JIT), and the law will remain in force for three years.

An amendment to Section 11EEEE authorises armed forces or civil armed forces to place individuals under preventive detention.

The detention period, under Article 10, can be extended up to three months.

The JIT will comprise a police officer of SP rank, representatives of intelligence agencies, civil armed forces, the military, and other law enforcement agencies.

Opposition voices concerns

PTI Senator Barrister Ali Zafar opposed the bill, calling it contrary to Islamic principles and justice.

He warned that where justice is absent, terrorism will grow, and cautioned that such laws could be misused against political opponents or dissenters.

“Legislation should not be rushed in a way that undermines democratic rights,” he said.

Government’s defence

Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the bill, arguing that Pakistan continues to burn in the fire of terrorism and that the government has a duty to protect its youth.

He noted that similar amendments had been made in the past and clarified that under Section 4, both federal and provincial governments already hold the power to summon the armed forces.

He added that the sub-article ensures suspects retain the right to legal counsel.

PPP Senator Sherry Rehman supported the bill, stating that Pakistan is fighting a large-scale war against terrorism and must ensure justice within constitutional bounds.

MQM Senator Faisal Subzwari said terrorism in Pakistan often strengthened due to compromises, making strong legislation necessary.

Senators Dilawar Khan and Ahmed Khan of JUI-F also backed the bill, with the law minister thanking them for their support.

Other legislation approved

The Senate also unanimously passed an amendment to the Petroleum Act 1934, moved by Minister of Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik.

Additionally, the chamber extended the CDA Amendment Ordinance 2025 and the National Food Safety Authority Ordinance 2025 by 120 days.

Flood relief initiative

During the proceedings, the Senate Chairman announced that lawmakers had agreed to donate five days’ salary to aid flood victims.

Law Minister Tarar pledged his entire monthly salary and encouraged other members to follow suit.