Parliament Joint Session Passes Bills Despite Presidential Objections, Opposition Protests

Islamabad: Pakistan’s parliament on Tuesday approved several key bills during a joint session despite strong protests by the opposition and formal objections raised by the President, including reservations over the Danish Schools Authority and Domestic Violence bills.

According to Express News, the joint session of parliament, chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, began 35 minutes late and witnessed heated debate and protests from opposition parties as multiple legislative items were taken up.

The President had returned the Danish Schools Authority Bill and the Domestic Violence Prevention and Protection Bill with objections, urging the federal government to consult the provinces before establishing the Danish Schools Authority and terming certain provisions of the domestic violence legislation vague, particularly the proposed punishments. The President had recommended reconsideration of the domestic violence bill in its present form.

Human Rights Commission Amendment Bill Passed

During the session, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry presented the National Commission for Human Rights (Amendment) Bill. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) lawmaker Shazia Marri moved amendments, which were supported by the government. Amendments proposed by JUI-F lawmakers Senator Kamran Murtaza and Alia Kamran were rejected. The joint session subsequently passed the National Commission for Human Rights (Amendment) Bill 2025.

Danish Schools Authority Bill Approved Amid Protests

The Danish Schools Authority Bill 2025 was then presented in the joint session. JUI-F Senator Kamran Murtaza read out the President’s advice, stressing that provinces should be taken into confidence and warning that the federation was encroaching upon provincial domains.

As opposition members objected, the Speaker ignored the protests and initiated the voting process, triggering loud sloganeering in the house. Opposition leaders from both houses stood up in protest, while PTI lawmakers gathered in front of the Speaker’s dais chanting slogans. Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, Barrister Gohar, Mahmood Khan Achakzai and other PTI members led the protest, but despite the disorder, the Danish Schools Authority Bill was passed.

Domestic Violence Bill Also Approved

The Domestic Violence Prevention and Protection Bill 2025 was later taken up for approval. JUI-F members again presented the President’s objections and urged the Speaker not to ignore them. Senator Kamran Murtaza and Alia Kamran’s proposed amendments were rejected by the house.

During the debate, Minister of State Talal Chaudhry said that, for the first time, men had also been included in the domestic violence legislation, adding that this would ensure protection for all victims. The bill was subsequently approved, after which most PTI members ended their protest and returned to their seats, though some lawmakers continued to raise other issues.

Unanimous Resolution on Gul Plaza Tragedy

A joint resolution on the Gul Plaza tragedy in Karachi, signed by both government and opposition members, was presented by MQM parliamentary leader Dr Farooq Sattar. Senator Sherry Rehman said her party fully supported the resolution, describing the incident as a national tragedy and urging federal assistance for the affected families.

The joint session unanimously adopted the resolution, offering prayers for the deceased, expressing solidarity with the victims, calling for improved fire safety measures, and demanding compensation for those affected.

Debate on Gaza Peace Board

Speaking during the session, Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas criticized Pakistan’s participation in the Gaza Peace Board, claiming it lacked Palestinian representation and undermined the resistance of the people of Gaza. He urged parliament to pass a resolution opposing the initiative.

Responding, Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal defended the government’s decision, saying Pakistan could not afford diplomatic isolation. He said participation alongside friendly Muslim countries was aimed at contributing to peace efforts in Gaza, while reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to sovereignty and national dignity.

Danish Schools Authority Act 2025 Passed

Later, the Danish Schools Authority Act 2025 was formally passed by parliament. Under the law, a statutory Danish Schools Authority will be established to oversee the administration of Danish Schools in the Islamabad Capital Territory, with immediate effect. The law prioritizes access to education for children from low-income families.

Under the Act, the Prime Minister will serve as chairman of the authority, with the relevant federal minister as vice chairman. Senior federal officials, education experts, and private sector representatives will also be members. The authority will have powers to approve curricula, inspect institutions, collaborate with public and private bodies, and manage existing Danish Schools.

Following the completion of legislative business, the joint session of parliament was adjourned for an indefinite period.