The purpose of this new law is to make security agencies’ operations against terrorism more effective and to deal with the serious threats facing the country. To ensure that powers are not misused, key provisions such as transparency, accountability, and judicial oversight are included in the bill.

Under the amendment, in view of serious threats to national security, the preventive detention of suspects will now be possible, while joint investigation teams will be able to conduct coordinated inquiries. Furthermore, legal authority to detain suspects has been granted to both the armed forces and civilian institutions.

The law also includes a three-year sunset clause, meaning it will remain in force for a limited period and may only be extended further with fresh approval from Parliament if required.

Also Read: PM’s Youth Loan scheme empowers 434,000 entrepreneurs across Pakistan

It is worth noting that the Anti-Terrorism Amendment Bill 2024 had been approved by the National Assembly on August 13, which included a provision for a three-year extension.

Government ministers maintain that this step was necessary to counter the rising threat of terrorism and to ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property.