The Senate has approved a bill introducing up to three years of imprisonment for participating in unauthorized protests in the capital city.
This legislation aims to confine rallies to government-sanctioned areas only.
Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani oversaw the session where the bill garnered majority support.
Under the new law, while peaceful protests may occur in areas like Sangjani, those attending unsanctioned events face prison.
Opposition parties, notably Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), criticized the bill, alleging it targets their ability to organize rallies in Islamabad.
PTI Senator Ali Zafar expressed concerns that the legislation will thwart an imminent PTI protest. Conversely, Senator Irfan Siddiqui argued that the bill aims to enhance facilities for peaceful protests rather than curtail political freedoms.
Federal Minister Azam Nazir Tarar stated the government’s commitment to designating specific protest zones and ensuring media access to these events.
The bill is set to undergo further scrutiny before it becomes law.
On Tuesday, the Senate Standing Committee on Interior, led by Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, advanced the “Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill 2024.”
Meanwhile, PTI founder Imran Khan has mobilized support for a rally in Islamabad on September 8, urging followers to overcome impediments.
During a press interaction at Adiala Jail, where he faces a £190 million lawsuit, Khan refuted claims that he had instructed underground party leaders to reappear and reaffirmed the scheduled rally.
“There will be a rally in Islamabad on September 8,” Khan declared. “I urge the nation to join us without yielding any hindrances.”
