Amnesty International says Punjab anti-terror law raises concern on 'right to fair trial'
Says amendment allows for 'secret trials' that could result in human rights violations, misuse of anti-terrorism laws
Amnesty International expressed serious concerns on Friday about the Punjab Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which could violate the right to a fair trial. The bill was passed by the Punjab Assembly on August 31 amidst protests and opposition lawmakers walking out. Amnesty International stated that the amendment undermines the right to fair trial in Pakistan, calling it a "glaring attack" on that fundamental right.
The amendment introduces a "special security case" mechanism, allowing a designated authority to declare a case or class of cases as such, with the Chief Justice bound by this decision. The identities of all involved parties in such proceedings would be concealed, including judges, public prosecutors, defense counsel, police officers, witnesses, and any other individuals. Proceedings could be held in secure locations or via video link, even from prison.
Amnesty International highlighted that the amendment's lack of transparency and the vague criteria for classifying a case as a "special security case" heighten the risk of a miscarriage of justice. The amendment's implementation in Punjab, Pakistan's most populous province, could potentially influence other provinces to adopt similar laws.
Written by urgent.news from The Express Tribune - Pakistan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
