A Senate panel has cleared a bill seeking to prescribe jail terms and fines for preaching Zionism and displaying its symbols.

The Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill recommends up to three years of imprisonment or a fine of Rs40,000, or both, for anyone who knowingly or intentionally engages in the preaching of Zionism to incite hatred in society.

The proposed bill seeks punishment for up to two years or imposition of fine or both for anyone who knowingly or intentionally displays symbols of Zionism to spread hatred and disturb peace.

The statement of objects and reasons of the bill says that Zionism is an ethnic, religious and political school of thought, which adopts extremist and strict ways and means to attain its objectives.

The proposed legislation is yet to be introduced in either of the two houses of the parliament for approval.

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