Senate Committee Approves Key Legal Reforms Targeting Military Cybercrimes and Legal Sector Governance

Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Law and Justice, chaired by Senator Farooq H. Naek, convened to review key legislative proposals, including the Pakistan Navy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Legal Practitioners and Bar Councils (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The discussions focused on strengthening legal frameworks related to cybercrimes within the military and reforming regulations governing legal practitioners and bar councils.

During the session, the Committee scrutinized the Pakistan Navy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which proposes specific measures to address cybercrimes committed by naval personnel. It was noted that the bill is specifically applicable to members of the Pakistan Navy and does not extend to civilians. The Minister for Law and Justice, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, supported the amendments, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing disciplinary procedures within the armed forces while respecting legal norms. The Committee recognized the importance of these provisions in maintaining discipline and security within the navy’s ranks.

In addition to cybersecurity-related reforms, the Committee evaluated the Legal Practitioners and Bar Councils (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which aims to update regulations governing legal practitioners and bar councils to improve governance, accountability, and professionalism in the legal sector. The deliberations underscored the government’s efforts to modernize legal standards and ensure ethical practices within the legal fraternity.

Following comprehensive discussions, the Committee unanimously approved the proposed amendments in both bills, signaling a collective commitment to strengthening military discipline and reforming legal regulatory frameworks. The approved legislations are expected to enhance the effectiveness and integrity of the respective institutions, aligning with broader efforts to uphold rule of law and national security.