To tint or not to tint? Senate standing committee discusses policy on tinted vehicles

ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Interior held a meeting to review policies regarding tinted glass on vehicles, with lawmakers stressing the need for clear guidelines before imposing fines or allowing modifications.

During the session, the committee chairman noted that in many foreign countries, vehicle owners pay an extra fee for tinted glass, and suggested that a similar provision be included locally to generate revenue. He cautioned officials not to take action on the matter until a formal policy is established, questioning the rationale behind fines being imposed in the absence of official regulations.

PTI leader Talal Chaudhry emphasised that a policy should first be developed, requesting clear guidelines from the Interior Ministry. He highlighted that certificates were previously issued without clear rules, and that the trend of installing tinted glass was often done purely for fashion.

The discussion also touched on security concerns. PML-N’s Samina Mumtaz Zahri argued that comparisons with other countries are not valid due to local security challenges, pointing out that law enforcement does not always ensure public safety. She stressed that citizens, particularly children, remain vulnerable and suggested that tinted glass should not be allowed for vehicles carrying children, while it could be permitted for others.

Lawmakers debated broader public safety issues, with Chaudhry asserting that while law and order is a concern, cities like Lahore are safer than international counterparts such as New York. He added that crime, including sexual assault, occurs worldwide, and policymaking should be guided by statistics rather than isolated incidents.

Samina Mumtaz Zahri also criticised some lawmakers’ statements comparing Pakistan to foreign countries, highlighting differences in law enforcement efficiency and legal consequences. She noted that in many nations cited, immediate punishments are enforced, unlike local conditions.

The committee concluded that a formal, enforceable policy is needed before any action is taken regarding tinted vehicle glasses, balancing safety, security, and regulatory clarity.