ISLAMABAD – The National Assembly has passed the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2024, granting law enforcement agencies expanded powers to detain individuals suspected of terrorism-related activities. The bill, approved with 125 votes in favor and 59 against, revives Section 11-EEE of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), which had lapsed in 2016 due to a sunset clause.
Key Provisions of the Amendment:
- Pre-Trial Detention: Authorities can now detain suspects for up to three months without formal charges, extendable by an additional three months under judicial oversight.
- Joint Investigation Teams (JITs): The amendment empowers the establishment of JITs comprising law enforcement and intelligence agencies to conduct comprehensive inquiries.
- Extended Detention Powers: Armed forces and civilian institutions are authorized to detain suspects legally, enhancing coordination in counterterrorism efforts.
Government’s Defense:
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that the amendment aims to strengthen national security and prevent terrorist activities. He asserted that the legislation includes judicial review mechanisms to safeguard individual rights.
Opposition’s Concerns:
Opposition lawmakers, including Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Maulana Fazlur Rehman, condemned the bill, arguing it violates constitutional protections against arbitrary detention. They expressed concerns that the legislation could lead to the misuse of power and infringe upon citizens’ rights.
Legal Framework:
The amendment aligns with constitutional provisions permitting preventive detention under specific circumstances. Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar clarified that the law mandates the production of detained individuals before a court within 24 hours, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
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