Anti-Human Smuggling Amendment Bill Approved by Senate

The Senate of Pakistan has approved the anti-human smuggling amendment bill to introduce tougher punishments for those involved in migrant smuggling. The bill aims to stop illegal migration, protect lives, and strengthen laws against criminal networks operating in the country.

The Senate session was chaired by Chairman Senate Yousaf Raza Gillani. During the meeting, Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri presented the amendment bill, which was passed after discussion by the house.

According to the bill, anyone found guilty of human smuggling will face life imprisonment, with a minimum jail term of 15 years. The offender will also be fined up to one crore rupees. Those involved in preparing fake documents for smuggling will receive up to 15 years in prison, with a minimum of seven years, along with a fine of 50 lakh rupees.

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The bill further states that providing shelter to illegal residents will result in up to 15 years in prison, with a minimum sentence of seven years and a fine of 50 lakh rupees. Anyone offering facilities such as rooms or places to assist migrant smuggling will face up to 10 years in jail along with financial penalties.

Under the anti-human smuggling amendment bill, individuals providing financial services for migrant smuggling, including lawyers or accountants, will receive up to 10 years in prison and fines. Those offering transport vehicles for smuggling will face up to seven years in jail and fines of up to 50 lakh rupees, strengthening Pakistan’s fight against illegal migration.