Senate passes three bills against human trafficking, forced begging

ISLAMABAD: The Senate on Friday passed three important bills aimed at imposing strict punishments on those involved in human trafficking, forced begging abroad, and sending underage girls overseas for prostitution.

During a session chaired by Senator Sherry Rehman, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar presented the bills, which were unanimously approved without any opposition.

The approved bills include: The Prevention of Smuggling of Migrants (Amendment) Bill 2025, The Prevention of Trafficking in Persons (Amendment) Bill 2025 and Amendments to the Immigration Ordinance 1979.

Under these laws, the violators could face prison terms from three to ten years along with fines. Additionally, the masterminds behind forced begging abroad will receive stricter punishments.

Before presenting the bills, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar highlighted the increasing incidents of illegal migrant boat accidents and how some people are misusing Umrah visas for organized begging, tarnishing Pakistan’s image.

He stressed that these bills aim to impose strict penalties on those involved in such crimes.

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The Finance Bill 2025 and the Income Tax Amendment Bill 2025 were also introduced in the Senate. Suggestions for these bills have been invited by Monday.

The Finance Committee will review the recommendations and submit a report within ten days before forwarding them to the National Assembly.

The Senate also passed a resolution affirming the right to hold peaceful political gatherings. The resolution was presented by Opposition Leader Shibli Faraz and was approved after a motion.

According to the resolution, peaceful rallies are the right of all political parties, including PTI, and should be allowed anywhere in the country.

Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar stated that while the federal government cannot force provincial governments to allow such gatherings, the resolution should be in line with constitutional and legal provisions.

Senator Ali Zafar argued that while the government and its allies face no restrictions on public meetings, PTI is being singled out, so the resolution’s wording should remain unchanged.

Senator Hidayatullah of the ANP, who initially drafted the resolution, clarified that the purpose was not to hold a protest rally but to pay tribute to ANP leaders.

The senate session has been adjourned till 4:00 pm Monday.