ISLAMABAD: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman strongly criticised government’s proposed amendments to Anti-Terrorism Act, calling them an affront to democratic principles and an insult to spirit of 26th constitutional amendment.

Talking to media, Maulana Fazlur Rehman condemned government’s plan to extend period of detention and enable authorities to detain individuals for up to 90 days based solely on suspicion.

He argued that granting such sweeping powers to government would effectively amount to “Civil martial law,” marking dangerous erosion of civil liberties and democratic standards.

Pakistan Peoples’ Party and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, who have long advocated democratic values and sanctity of vote, are now supporting legislation that undermines very essence of democracy,” he held.

Questioning government’s intentions, JUI leader urged lawmakers to reconsider which parts of 26th amendment they are willing to retract, suggesting that current legislation contradicts foundational principles of Constitution.

He criticised government’s approach, stating that upcoming 27th constitutional amendment should be focal point for discussions. Fazlul Rehman indicated that JUI-F plans to actively oppose government’s proposed changes, insisting that both PPP and PML-N should refrain from endorsing any legislation that undermines democratic principles.

He said, “Allowing such laws to pass would tarnish image of democracy in country. “Democratic institutions cannot condone legislation that grants excessive powers to authorities.”

He urged incumbent government to reconsider clauses it intends to retract from 26th Amendment. Proposed anti-terrorism reforms would lead to further degradation of democratic traditions,” he added.

Fazlur Rehman also rebuked recently enacted Evacuee Properties Act, which extends to Islamabad’s limits, calling it “Illegal” and claiming that opposition to law reflects collective stance of Muslim ummah, rather than just his own party’s viewpoint.

On humanitarian note, Maulana Fazlur Rehman drew attention to crisis in Gaza, where he highlighted severe food shortages. He urged everyone to extend support to oppressed residents in the besieged region.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 05 2024

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