Pakistan Revamps Counterterrorism Act: Preventive Detention Powers Extended

Islamabad, Ali Imran Chattha 

 President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday signed the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2025 into law, implementing major revisions to the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1997. The government described the move as a step to bolster Pakistan’s counterterrorism framework amid a rise in militant attacks over the past year.

The law restores powers for law enforcement agencies and the armed forces to detain suspects for up to 90 days on reasonable suspicion of involvement in terrorism-related offenses, including kidnapping for ransom, extortion, and targeted killings — crimes often linked to militant networks and organized criminal groups.

Judicial Oversight and Safeguards

While expanding preventive detention powers, the amendment introduces legal checks to prevent misuse. Detentions ordered by military or civil armed forces must now undergo judicial oversight. Investigations in such cases will be conducted by a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) comprising senior police officers, intelligence representatives, and members of civil armed forces, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Authorities emphasized that the law aligns with Article 10 of the Constitution, which protects citizens against arbitrary arrest and detention.

Government’s Position

Officials defended the legislation as necessary to preempt acts of terrorism, enabling authorities to act on credible intelligence before threats escalate. A government spokesperson said, “Pakistan is facing a critical challenge that requires a robust legal framework. The amendments provide law enforcement with the authority they need while ensuring the rights of citizens are safeguarded.”

Balancing Security and Rights

The law has reignited debate over Pakistan’s longstanding challenge of balancing security imperatives with civil liberties. Human rights advocates have cautioned that preventive detention powers can be misused if not strictly regulated. By embedding judicial supervision and requiring multi-agency JITs, the government aims to mitigate such risks, though critics stress that practical implementation will be key.

Broader Context

The Anti-Terrorism Act has been amended multiple times since 1997 in response to evolving security threats. The 2025 amendment reflects concerns over militant violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and urban centers, where extortion rackets and targeted killings have resurfaced. Analysts note that while the law could enhance Pakistan’s capacity to neutralize threats early, counterterrorism success will also require judicial reforms, political consensus, and socio-economic measures.