Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Law and Justice convened at Parliament House to examine several Private Members’ Bills addressing honour killings, family courts, juvenile justice, Muslim family laws, and the Federal Prosecution Service. The session, chaired by Senator Farooq Hamid Naek, aimed to address legal gaps and enforcement challenges within these areas.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the meeting included participation from Senators Shahadat Awan, Zamir Hussain Ghumro, Muhammad Tallal Badar, and Kamran Murtaza. Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, who proposed the Honour Killings Prevention Bill, contributed via video link, highlighting ongoing issues within the existing legal framework. She emphasized that, despite prior legislation, honour killings persist, necessitating stricter legal amendments for accountability and deterrence.

The Federal Minister for Law and Justice acknowledged existing safeguards but warned against overlapping with current laws. He identified investigation, prosecution, and enforcement deficiencies as key areas needing improvement. Committee members condemned honour killings, stressing the importance of societal change and strict law enforcement to prevent these crimes.

The Committee postponed further discussion on the Honour Killings Bill and other proposed amendments to family and juvenile laws at the Law Ministry and bill proposers’ requests. Chairman Naek instructed a comprehensive legal review of current laws and proposed amendments. Additionally, the Committee urged the Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan to expedite previously requested reports.