The Senate Standing Committee on Finance has asked the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to clarify workplace dress code policies. Lawmakers raised concerns after reports claimed an Islamic bank made abayas mandatory for female employees.
The committee discussed whether banks could impose specific dress requirements. Consequently, members called for clear regulatory guidance from the central bank.
Lawmakers Raise Concerns Over Dress Code
Senator Zarqa Suharwardy said women should have the freedom to wear Pakistan’s national dress. She added that female employees should be allowed to wear shalwar kameez with a dupatta instead of an abaya.
Meanwhile, Senator Sherry Rehman opposed mandatory abayas and headscarves in financial institutions. Furthermore, she urged the SBP to issue clear workplace guidelines for all banks.
The committee also reviewed complaints about frozen bank accounts. Members criticised delays in resolving cases involving parliamentarians.
Committee Reviews Banking And Tax Issues
SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad said the central bank would appoint two dedicated officers. They will address banking issues faced by members of parliament.
Separately, lawmakers discussed taxes collected through electricity bills. FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial said sales tax on electricity had not increased during the past two years.
According to FBR officials, Rs. 476 billion was collected through electricity bills. The amount included Rs. 270 billion in sales tax and Rs. 154 billion in income tax.
The committee also reviewed proposed legal amendments for the Reko Diq project. Additionally, senators directed officials to settle pending compensation and dues of Senate employees within seven days.
