Senate panel passes controversial bill on peaceful protests

In a stormy session on Tuesday, the Senate Standing Committee on Interior approved the “Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill 2024.”

This bill is set to become Pakistan’s first comprehensive law regulating peaceful protests and gatherings in Islamabad.

The bill, introduced by Senators Saleem Mandviwala, Samina Mumtaz Zehri, Irfanul Haque Siddiqui, Syed Faisal Ali Subzwari, and Umer Farooq, aims to address the growing issue of unregulated protests in Islamabad. It proposes designating specific areas for public gatherings and outlines penalties for unauthorized assemblies.

Despite the approval, the bill faced strong opposition from PTI members, including Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman and Senator Saifullah Abro. They criticized the bill, arguing it might target specific political groups and limit democratic freedoms. Senator Abro, in particular, accused the bill’s proponents of attempting to suppress political dissent.

The bill’s supporters argue that the current lack of regulation leads to severe disruptions for Islamabad’s residents. Senator Mandviwala highlighted the frequent lockdowns and road closures caused by protests and called for a streamlined approach. He suggested creating a designated protest zone similar to London’s Hyde Park.

Intense arguments and disruptions marked the committee session. Senator Abro clashed with Senator Awan of PPP, leading to a heated exchange. Despite the discord, the committee passed three additional bills, including amendments to electronic crime laws and measures against human trafficking.

As the bill moves forward, it will be scrutinized further by the full Senate. Its implementation could reshape how public protests are managed in Pakistan’s capital, balancing public order with the right to peaceful assembly.