Bill recommends up to 6 months jail, Rs1m fine
The National Assembly of Pakistan has unanimously passed a private member’s bill aimed at condemning and punishing actions that breach the sovereignty and integrity of the Parliament in any form or manner. The bill, moved by Chairman Standing Committee on Rules of Procedure and Privileges Rana Muhammad Qasim Noon, received widespread support from members of the House. Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Rana Tanveer Hussain commended the bill, stating that it would enhance the oversight role of the Parliament. The legislation is seen as a historic moment in the country’s parliamentary history and signifies a significant step toward ensuring the supremacy of Parliament as the “mother of all institutions”.
Although similar legislation exists at the provincial level, this bill fills a crucial gap by establishing provisions at the federal level. It aims to ensure the proper functioning of standing committees and strengthen parliamentary oversight. Under the new law, a House can charge an individual with contempt if they breach the privileges of the Parliament.
The NA Speaker or Chairman of the Senate can refer such matters to the Contempt Committee. If the Committee determines that a person should be charged with contempt, the Chairman of the Committee can move a motion in the House.
Within thirty days of the Act’s commencement, the Speaker will establish a Contempt Committee consisting of twenty-four members with equal representation from each house. Fourteen members will be nominated by the Leader of the House, while ten members will be nominated by the Leader of the Opposition. The Secretary of the National Assembly Secretariat will act as the Secretary of the Contempt Committee, and decisions will be made by a majority vote. The bill emphasises that individuals charged with contempt will have the right to a fair trial, as guaranteed by the Constitution. However, they will not be permitted to appear before the Committee with legal representation.
