NA passes ‘The National Counter Terrorism Authority Bill‚ 2013’

The National Assembly resumed its session in Islamabad on Friday with Speaker Dr Fehmida Mirza in chair.

Before start of the proceedings National Anthem was played.

Chairperson Standing Committee on Defence Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho presented before the House a report of the committee on “The Surveying and Mapping Bill‚ 2013”.

The National Assembly unanimously passed “The National Counter Terrorism Authority Bill‚ 2013”. The bill was earlier moved by Law Minister Farooq H Naek.

The National Assembly on Friday also passed a unanimous resolution paying tributes to women for their contribution in different sector of life in Pakistan.

The resolution was moved by Dr Nafisa Shah and was signed by the members of all political parties.

Speaking on the occasion on behalf of the male members of the House‚ Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira said that the present assembly did historical legislation for the protection of rights of the women. He said that the government provided representation to women in all segments of life including the government and the Parliament. He said that the government empowered women to ensure progress and development of the country.

Earlier‚ on a point of order‚ Law Minister Farooq H. Naek said that “International Women’s Day is being observed today. The House must dedicate today’s session to pay tributes to women”.

Speaking on the occasion‚ Speaker Dr Fehmida Mirza said that the government has taken various steps for economic empowerment of women and has brought changes in the relevant laws to provide them safe working environment apart from allocating substantial funds for provision of basic healthcare facilities and education to them.

She said that Parliament has enacted several laws to protect women from violence and oppression including Women Harassment Bill‚ anti-women practices Bill and National Commission on the status of Women Bill.

Dr.Azra Fazal Pechuho‚ Shireen Arshad‚ Bushra Rehman‚ Kishwar Zehra‚ Bushra Gohar and Asiya Nasir also addressed the house.

A larger number of women hailing from walks of life were also present in the visitor’s gallery to witness the proceedings of the House.

The House was later adjourned till Monday 4 pm.