ISLAMABAD: (Parliament Times) The Senate on Wednesday passed the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2017 pertaining to the revival of military courts for another two years.
The bill has already been passed by the National Assembly, when 255 NA members voted in favour while only four voted against the bill on Tuesday.
Law Minister Zahid Hamid, who tabled the bill, said that in January 2015 the Pakistan Army Act 2015, along with 21st Constitution amendment, was passed to trial hardcore terrorists in military courts.
He said it was reviewed in January this year and positive results were achieved in the war against terror through these amendments. However, he said, terrorism remains a threat to the integrity and security of the country and it is imperative to extend special measures adopted earlier. Four additions have been made in the previously passed Pakistan Army Act 2015, he noted.
Maulana Attaur Rehman of JUI-F opposed the bill, saying “terrorism should not be linked with any religion, group or sect.â€
His objection was rejected by majority of the Senate.