Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Interior has overwhelmingly rejected a bill that proposed punitive actions against students found using drugs in educational institutions across Pakistan.
The bill, introduced by Senator Mohsin Aziz, sought to implement a three-step penalty system for students who test positive for drug use. Under the proposed legislation, a first offense would result in a warning, a second in a 15-day suspension, and a third in fines and possible expulsion.
During the committee meeting, representatives from the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) opposed the bill, emphasizing that students should be treated as victims rather than offenders in drug-related matters. They stated that the actual culprits are those involved in drug trafficking and supply chains.
The ANF informed the committee that drug screening has been completed in 80 percent of educational institutions, but clarified that conducting drug tests on students does not fall within the agency’s jurisdiction.
Committee member Senator Shahadat Awan criticized the bill, arguing that it infringes upon provincial autonomy. The Ministry of Law also shared the view that the matter should fall under the purview of the Ministry of Education rather than the ANF.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui added that no provincial government, educational institution, or the federal education ministry supports the proposed legislation.
Despite the strong opposition, Senator Mohsin Aziz defended the bill, stating that his sole intention was to protect children from drug addiction. He asserted that he would not withdraw the bill even if it were outright rejected by the committee.
Ultimately, the committee voted to reject the bill by majority vote.
