News Detail

The Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights, chaired by Senator Walid Iqbal, convened a session to address pressing issues concerning the rights of children and a matter of public importance related to a tragic incident. The committee members engaged in constructive discussions and deliberations on matters of utmost significance for the betterment of society.

The committee focused on two key agenda items:

1. "The National Commission on the Rights of Child (Amendment) Bill, 2023" introduced by Senator Prof. Dr. Mehr Taj Roghani, presented during the Senate sitting on 3rd April 2023.

2. "Senator Saifullah Abro's point of public importance raised during the Senate sitting on 7th April 2023, regarding the tragic murder of Professor Ajmal Sawand in Kandhkot, Sindh."

The committee conducted a comprehensive analysis and discussion on the proposed amendments to "The National Commission on the Rights of Child (Amendment) Bill, 2023" presented by Senator Mehr Taj Roghani. The Committee recognized the need for a comprehensive legislative framework to safeguard and enhance the rights of children, ensuring their protection and well-being in all aspects of life. The Chairperson of the National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) and the Secretary of the Ministry of Human Rights provided valuable insights regarding the amendment bill.

The Bill's sponsor emphasized the inclusion of a paediatrician in the Commission, highlighting its necessity. However, the Chairperson of the NCRC expressed the view that the formation of an advisory council would be better, as the existing law permits the commission to engage consultants, including experts, researchers, psychologists, and educationists, making the inclusion of mere paediatricians unnecessary.

To include consultants in the Commission, the Committee recommended amending Article 14, subsection 3 of the original act and requested a copy of the amended rules to be submitted to the Committee within four months. The Chairperson requested additional time due to the Commission currently lacking two members. The Commission was instructed to update the panel after four months and provide a progress report on the amendment bill.

Furthermore, the committee discussed the point of public importance raised by Senator Saifullah Abro regarding the tragic murder of Professor Ajmal Sawand in Kandhkot, Sindh. The members expressed deep concern and pledged to take concrete steps to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous act are brought to justice.

The SSP Operation Kashmore submitted all relevant reports/documents related to the case and provided an oral update on the progress made thus far. It was clarified that there is no political pressure associated with the case, and nine FIRs have been filed against the culprits.

Senator Abro suggested writing a letter to Bilawal Bhutto urging his efforts on the matter, as well as inviting a representative of the Chief Minister of Sindh to the committee regarding the murder case of Professor Ajmal Sawand.

The Chairman of the Committee recommended consulting with the Chairman of the Senate before inviting relevant/concerned figures and officials to the committee. The SSP Operation Kashmore assured that the culprits would be arrested or would surrender themselves within a few days.

The committee will collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into the matter and advocate for justice on behalf of the victim and his family. Led by Senator Walid Iqbal, the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding and protecting human rights, particularly those of vulnerable individuals.