The Senate of Pakistan has passed the Parliamentarians’ Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025, which includes an increase in salaries and perks for lawmakers, despite opposition protests.
During the session chaired by Deputy Chairman Syedal Khan, the bill was presented by Senator Danesh Kumar and initially passed unanimously. However, following objections from some members, a formal vote was conducted, resulting in the bill’s approval.
Deputy Chairman Syedal Khan ordered that the names of those who opposed the bill be recorded.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the salary increase, stating that any member who disagreed should submit a written declaration. He urged lawmakers not to politicize the issue, noting that similar salary increases had been implemented at the provincial level. His comments sparked strong protests from the opposition, prompting the deputy chairman to intervene and call for order.
In other legislative matters, Senator Zeeshan Khanzada introduced the Income Tax Ordinance (Amendment) Bill 2025, which was opposed by Minister of State for Finance Ali Pervaiz Malik. Additionally, the State Bank of Pakistan (Amendment) Bill 2023, introduced by Senator Mohsin Aziz, also sparked debate. Aziz refused to withdraw the bill or refer it to a committee, insisting it should be discussed directly in the Senate.
The Legal Practitioners & Bar Councils (Amendment) Bill 2025 was postponed due to the absence of Senator Farooq H. Naek, who is currently abroad. Meanwhile, the University of Business Sciences & Technology Bill 2025, presented by Senator Abdul Shakoor, was referred to the relevant standing committee for further discussion.
The session concluded with prayers led by Senator Shahadat Awan for the victims of terrorism and accidents, including workers who lost their lives in Swat.
