ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s federal cabinet on Friday approved a draft of amendments to anti-terrorism laws in an effort to further empowering law enforcement agencies for better handling of terror-related cases The draft bill, which will later be presented before the Parliament for approval, is aimed at curbing the menace of terrorism and giving special powers to security forces. It also provides ensuring protection of witnesses in terrorism cases. Federal minister Zahid Hamid presented the draft amendments in the session of federal cabinet which was chaired by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The bill bill, which calls for terrorists to be held accountable at all costs, was approved by the cabinet members to be tabled in parliament for further approval. According to sources, the amendments seek to aid security forces and law enforcement agencies by providing them special prosecution powers in cases related to terrorism. The amendments suggest that witnesses and prosecutors in cases related to terrorism should also be provided security, and that intelligence and security agencies can be requested to provide support during the interrogation of terrorism suspects. The bill also includes an amendment that necessitates swift proceedings in terrorism cases and allows for suspects in such cases to be held in custody for 90 days before being presented in court. According to reports, the cabinet also approved amendments to form special courts for swift proceedings and early disposal of terrorism cases within 30 days. The federal cabinet also decided to constitute a special committee to review the proposed bill for local bodies system in the federal capital. In his remarks, Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif expressed satisfaction over the targeted action by Rangers in Karachi saying that it had given some satisfaction to the common man. The prime minister also asked the federal government to extend all possible cooperation to Sindh government to improve law and order situation in the country’s business hub.
Posted on: Fri, 20 Sep 2013 13:16:15 +0000
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