Senators in Pakistan’s upper house raised concerns over the halt in issuing arms licences to lawmakers during a session of the Senate Standing Committee on Interior, chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi responded by announcing that each member of parliament would be granted one prohibited-bore licence, with licence quotas expanded in regions facing worsening law-and-order situations thenews.com.pk+2tribune.com.pk+2tribune.com.pk+2.
The session addressed multiple pressing issues, including illegal housing societies in Islamabad, water shortages, and security arrangements for the upcoming Muharram observances. It commenced with a moment of prayer for those affected by the recent tragedy in Swat tribune.com.pk.
During the discussion, Senator Palwasha Khan highlighted the cessation of licence issuance to parliamentarians. In response, Minister Naqvi not only confirmed that each MP would receive a licence but also assured that individuals who paid fees during the last tenure without receiving licences would be refunded tribune.com.pk.
Tensions arose over administrative conduct as committee members criticized the Director General of Immigration and Passports, Mustafa Jamal Qazi, for alleged unprofessional behavior. Senator Haji Hidayatullah recounted how Qazi ignored his communications and accepted requests from others, even reportedly questioning, “Is he greater than the state?”—a remark Hidayatullah described as “an unacceptable insult.” Interior Minister Naqvi promptly asked the Interior Secretary to investigate the matter tribune.com.pk.
The committee also considered amendments to the Pakistan Citizenship Bill 2025. DG Qazi clarified that overseas Pakistanis who renounced their citizenship to acquire foreign nationality would now be allowed to reclaim it—especially those from countries with bilateral agreements. He argued this policy would bring investment, philanthropy, and expertise back to Pakistan. Senator Palwasha questioned the tangible benefits, to which Qazi responded by emphasizing that returning nationals are “assets” who invest and contribute to Pakistan’s development and charity sector tribune.com.pk.
