The Senate on Thursday passed the Special Technology Zones Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025 with a majority vote but the proceedings were not without “fireworks” as a lawmaker clashed with the presiding chair, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
The bill was tabled by Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar in the house and it aims to further streamline the functioning of the Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA) and promote the growth of Pakistan’s technology sector.
The legislation is expected to enhance regulatory frameworks, attract investment, and facilitate innovation within the country’s special technology zones.
Two more bills were also tabled in the Senate – Civil Courts Amendment Bill 2025 and Pakistan Coast Guards Amendment Bill 2025 – which the chair referred to the relevant standing committees.
Senator Manzoor Kakar exchanged some hot words with Senate Deputy Chairman
Syedaal Khan Nasar, saying the chair was not according due respect to the members of the House. “Don’t act like a truck driver by waving hand. You are making fun of the seat you are sitting on,” he said and added “Lower your hands while you are talking to the members.”
The Senate deputy chairman responded that he was running the proceedings as per rules.
Number of HIV treatment centres increased to 94, Senate told
The Senate was informed that the number of centres for the treatment of HIV has increased from 49 to 94 over the past four years.
Responding to a calling attention notice, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar stated that these centres are providing free screening and treatment. He also mentioned that awareness campaigns are being organized to effectively combat the disease.
At the outset of the session, the House offered fateha for those martyred in recent acts of terrorism in the country.
The House has been adjourned to meet again on Saturday at 11:30 am.
Reporter Usman Khan