The National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior, chaired by Khurram Nawaz, approved the Citizenship Amendment Bill, paving the way for overseas Pakistanis to reclaim their Pakistani nationality.
During the committee session, representatives of the Law Ministry explained that the amendment aims to address a longstanding issue where Pakistanis acquiring citizenship in countries without dual nationality agreements had to forfeit their Pakistani citizenship.
"We are introducing amendments to restore Pakistani citizenship for those who had to give it up after acquiring foreign nationalities," the Law Ministry stated.
The passports director general further clarified that Pakistan previously lacked dual citizenship agreements with 22 countries, which have now been signed. Under the newly signed agreements, citizens won't need to renounce their Pakistani nationality.
Chairman Khurram Nawaz expressed his support, saying, "We have no objection to this bill. Pakistani citizens abroad should not be forced to choose between their homeland and their new homes."
Zartaj Gul calls for independent passport authority
The session also featured remarks from PTI parliamentary leader Zartaj Gul Wazir, who advocated for the establishment of a dedicated passport authority.
"The DG Passport is doing excellent work. This department generates significant revenue for the government and should have autonomous status," she emphasized.
She argued that if NADRA has its own authority, the passport department deserves the same level of autonomy for better efficiency and transparency.
Arms license reforms & security measures discussed
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry briefed the committee on the issuance of arms licenses. He confirmed that all provinces are issuing licenses, and a single license will be granted to each MNA with the prime minister’s approval.
While the government has reopened the issuance of prohibited bore licenses, Talal Chaudhry clarified that these will be issued on a limited scale and only through recommendations by members of parliament.
He also revealed that Saudi Arabia had sent a list of 4,300 individuals, all of whom have since been repatriated and had their passports cancelled.
FIA reforms & anti-begging law
The committee also touched on internal reforms within the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). MNA Jamshed Dasti criticized frequent leadership changes at the FIA, expressing concern over their effectiveness.
Talal Chaudhry responded by urging lawmakers to support institutions instead of engaging in baseless criticism.
Additionally, the government is preparing a new law targeting professional beggars, aiming to introduce a system of registration, punishment, and case tracking.
"These individuals leave legally via airports but later use third countries like Iran or Turkey to cross borders illegally," highlighted Chairman Khurram Nawaz, with additional input from members Raja Khurram Nawaz and Agha Rafiullah.
