QUETTA: The Balochistan Assembly (BA) on Thursday approved the Balochistan Provincial Assembly (Special Privileges Amendment) Bill 2025, a legislation aimed at providing enhanced protection and security cover to the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, ministers, opposition leader, and MPAs.
The bill was presented in the House by Provincial Health Minister Bakht Mohammad Kakar on behalf of the government and was passed with a majority vote. Lawmakers termed the step “necessary for safeguarding the democratic process” and ensuring that public representatives can perform their constitutional duties without intimidation or security concerns. According to the bill, the Speaker of the Balochistan Assembly will be entitled to at least 10 security personnel, while the Deputy Speaker and provincial ministers will be provided eight guards each. The leader of the opposition will be entitled to six guards, parliamentary secretaries to two, and every other member of the assembly will be entitled to six guards during their tenure.
According to the objectives outlined by the Minister In-Charge/Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti, the legislation was brought forward in light of the current security situation in the province, where elected representatives often face threats due to their political roles and positions. The government stated that protecting lawmakers is essential not only for their personal safety but also for the continuation of legislative business in a safe and secure environment. It was further noted that many members currently employ private guards who are untrained and unfamiliar with government rules and regulations, and therefore appointing professional security personnel is recommended.
By passing the bill, the Assembly underscored that elected representatives—whether from the government or the opposition—must be able to represent the people of Balochistan without fear, pressure, or compromise to their safety.