ISLAMABAD: A meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Interior and Narcotics Control, chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman, focused on significant legislative proposals and national issues, resulting in the approval of several bills and deferral of others for further discussion.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the committee reviewed the “Islamabad Metro Bus Service Bill, 2026,” with opposition from the Capital Development Authority (CDA), which argued that a separate regulatory authority was unnecessary. The Ministry of Interior and CDA agreed to consider constructive suggestions, and the committee deferred further discussion, asking for consensus among stakeholders to be presented in the next meeting.

The committee unanimously passed “The Pakistan Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026” and “The Offence of Zina (Enforcement of Hudood) (Amendment) Bill, 2026.” Concerns were raised over delays in the “Islamabad Real Estate (Regulation and Development) (Amendment) Bill, 2026,” despite its passage in both Houses of Parliament. The Minister of State for Interior noted ongoing government reviews to prevent legal overlaps. The “National Database and Registration Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2026” was also unanimously approved.

Issues concerning the Parliament Lodges, including security, hygiene, and illegal occupants, were discussed, with the committee directing the CDA to report on maintenance and security. The committee recommended strict actions against defaulters and emphasized prioritizing parliamentarians for lodge accommodations.

On the topic of tinted vehicle glasses, a fee-based mechanism was proposed, with exemptions for parliamentarians and diplomats. The arms license policy is under federal review, with decisions forthcoming.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police briefed the committee on the law and order situation in Mardan, highlighting successful counter-terrorism operations and technological advancements like surveillance drones. The committee commended the police for their efforts and recommended further support and modernization.

Concerns were raised over the blocking of CNICs, with directives to resolve issues concerning Afghan nationals allegedly possessing Pakistani CNICs. Discussion on security in Malakand and Chitral was deferred due to the mover’s absence.