Parliament Passes Key Human Rights and Domestic Violence Bills Amid Opposition Protests
Pakistan’s parliament has approved three major legislative bills during a joint sitting, despite strong opposition protests, heated exchanges, and vocal objections over the domestic violence law. The ruling coalition secured majority support, marking a significant legislative victory.
The National Commission for Human Rights Act, the Danish Schools Authority Bill, and the Domestic Violence Prevention and Protection Bill were all passed after being reintroduced. Each bill had earlier been returned by the president and was tabled again after objections were addressed.
The National Commission for Human Rights Act 2025 was presented by the minister for parliamentary affairs and approved clause by clause. Amendments proposed by the Pakistan Peoples Party were accepted, while changes suggested by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl were rejected by the House.
Amendments to the Danish Schools Authority Bill were also approved amid opposition commotion. Under the revised law, the establishment of Danish Schools will now require approval from relevant provincial authorities. The bill was passed despite continuous protests inside the chamber.
The most contentious debate surrounded the Domestic Violence Prevention and Protection Bill. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry supported amendments moved by PPP’s Sharmila Farooqi, emphasizing that men should also be covered under the law as victims of domestic abuse often suffer in silence.
JUI-F MNA Aaliya Kamran, supported by Senator Kamran Murtaza, proposed amendments that were ultimately rejected. The House passed the bill with provisions extending protection to men included. Arguments against the bill cited concerns over family structures and property rights, which were dismissed during the debate.
Tensions escalated as opposition members staged a silent protest near the speaker’s dais, holding banners highlighting the law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Speaker Ayaz Sadiq urged them to allow legislative business to proceed, suggesting protests be held afterward.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman strongly opposed the legislation, claiming it conflicted with religious principles, particularly regarding underage marriages. He warned of public resistance and accused the government of undermining democratic norms. His remarks further intensified the debate inside the House.
Despite the uproar, the joint sitting completed its legislative agenda. Following the passage of all three bills, the session was adjourned for an indefinite period, closing a day marked by political confrontation and major policy decisions.
