Senate approves anti-smuggling bill

A panel of the upper house has passed a bill seeking stricter punishment for human smuggling, a phenomenon which has in the recent past cost the lives of hundreds of Pakistanis.

The Senate Standing Committee on Interior has approved the Prevention of Smuggling of Migrants (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aiming to curb the rising cases of human smuggling. The bill introduces stricter penalties, including a minimum three-year jail sentence, to strengthen deterrence.

Interior Secretary Khurram Agha emphasized the need for tougher laws, stating that human smuggling is increasing. Senator Shahadat Awan supported the bill, highlighting that it would make it harder for smugglers to secure bail.

The committee also reviewed the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons (Amendment) Bill, 2025, stressing the need for stronger action against unauthorized agents involved in human trafficking. Additionally, discussions were held on the Emigration (Amendment) Bill, 2025, with Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials confirming that fines for illegal activities will be raised to Rs1 million.

These legislative steps come after recent shipwrecks near Greece last year, which led Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to direct the Interior Ministry to intensify the crackdown on human smugglers and traffickers. The government aims to tighten legal loopholes and prevent further tragedies through these amendments.