KP Assembly Passes Privileges Amendment Act, Introduces Jail Terms and Fines for Violations

PESHAWAR:The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly has passed the Privileges (Amendment) Act, introducing penalties for violations related to the privileges and dignity of the provincial legislature.
Under the new law, publishing or broadcasting Assembly proceedings, committee reports, questions, resolutions, motions, or adjournment motions before they are officially presented in the House or formally released has been declared an offence.
The Act provides for imprisonment, fines, or both, depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
Anyone publishing a distorted report of Assembly proceedings or a legislator’s speech may face up to **three months in prison**, a **fine of Rs300,000**, or both.
Publishing prohibited Assembly proceedings or committee reports may result in **six months’ imprisonment**, a **fine of Rs1 million**, or both.
The law also prescribes **six months’ imprisonment**, a **fine of Rs500,000**, or both for publishing defamatory statements against the Assembly or undermining its dignity.
In addition, assaulting an Assembly official or obstructing them in the performance of official duties will be punishable by **up to one month in prison**, a **fine of Rs100,000**, or both.