The National Assembly of Pakistan took a significant step towards curbing human trafficking by passing three crucial bills on Monday. These legislative measures aim to prevent human trafficking, New Anti-Trafficking smuggling of migrants, and illegal emigration—issues that have led to the tragic loss of lives in recent months.
New Bills to Strengthen Anti-Trafficking Laws New Anti-Trafficking
Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazir Tarar presented the following bills:
- Prevention of Trafficking in Persons (Amendment) Bill 2025
- Emigration (Amendment) Bill 2025
- Prevention of Smuggling of Migrants (Amendment) Bill 2025
These amendments come in response to rising incidents of human trafficking and illegal migration. The government, in consultation with stakeholders, has worked on these amendments for the past two months to strengthen the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act 2018, the Prevention of Smuggling of Migrants Act 2018, and the Emigration Ordinance 1979.
Stricter Punishments for Human Traffickers New Anti-Trafficking
The new amendments significantly increase punishments for human traffickers:
- Prison sentences extended from 3 to 5 and 7 years
- Fines increased from Rs. 0.5 million to Rs. 3 million and Rs. 5 million
- Repeat offenders are to face imprisonment of up to 14 years and a fine of up to Rs. 10 million
- Property confiscation of convicted traffickers
Additionally, the trial of offenders will now be conducted in session courts instead of magistrate courts, ensuring faster justice within a specific timeline.
Government’s Crackdown on Human Trafficking Gangs New Anti-Trafficking
The Pakistani government has launched a nationwide crackdown on human trafficking gangs. Minister Tarar revealed that several criminals have been arrested, and investigations have exposed shocking tactics used by traffickers, including offering ‘free travel’ to the families of deceased migrants.
“This is a serious issue on which the Prime Minister is personally overseeing meetings twice a week,” said the minister. Special committees have been formed, and dozens of traffickers are already behind bars.
Opposition’s Resistance and Quorum Issues
The minister expressed regret over the opposition’s protest during the legislative session. Opposition members pointed out quorum deficiencies and staged a walkout despite the bills’ non-political nature.
However, the House was found in order after counting, and the bills were successfully passed.
Other Bills Passed by the National Assembly
In addition to the human trafficking legislation, the National Assembly also approved:
- Civil Courts (Amendment) Bill 2024
- Pakistan Coast Guards (Amendment) Bill 2024
- Civil Servants (Amendment) Bill 2025 (Referred to a standing committee for review)
New Asset Declaration Rule for Civil Servants
The Civil Servants (Amendment) Bill 2025 mandates that officers from BPS-17 to BPS-22 must declare their assets. This measure aims to increase transparency and accountability in the bureaucracy.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1284016-na-passes-bills-to-curb-human-trafficking
