Pakistani senators demand action on the repeated absence of ministers from Senate sessions while discussing online censorship, legislation, and infrastructure issues.
During the senate’s session, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Senator Rubina Khalid raised concerns about blasphemous and derogatory content online. She argued that the government appeared to be helpless on the matter and that it was the responsibility of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to take action against such content.
In response, Minister of State for Law and Justice Shahadat Awan stated that online hate speech was blocked, with thousands of pages and accounts already removed. He also mentioned that the government was working on legislation to compel social media platforms to register in Pakistan.
The session also saw bills on the Petroleum Act and Trade Disputes Resolution presented and sent to standing committees. Climate Change Minister Sherry Rehman also discussed the lack of infrastructure for electric vehicles and plastic waste recycling in Pakistan.
Amid the session, PML-N Senator Dr. Asif Kimani drew attention to the empty front row, expressing regret that the absence of ministers indicated their lack of interest in Senate proceedings.
Awan responded that a few ministers were busy and unable to attend the session. Still, Kirmani was enraged and asked why the senators had no other business to attend to than participating in the proceedings.
Following the session, Sanjrani called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to address the issue of minister absences and ensure their presence in future Senate sessions.
The article provides a glimpse into Pakistan’s Senate’s ongoing issues and discussions. It highlights the concerns and opinions of different senators on various topics, including internet censorship, legislation, infrastructure, and government accountability.
