LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed serious concern over the manner in which the 27th Amendment to the Constitution is being presented in Parliament.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the HRCP deplored the government’s haste in tabling the amendment, noting the absence of meaningful consultation with the political opposition, the wider legal fraternity, and civil society. The commission stated that this lack of due process calls into question the very intention behind the amendment bill.

The reported content of the amendment has caused alarm among various groups. The proposed changes are said to include numerous provisions to reconfigure the judicial system, a concentration of power in specific offices that would cede more civilian space, and the grant of lifelong immunity to certain state offices.

Constitutionalists, the legal fraternity, human rights defenders, and others who believe in the independence of the judiciary and the tenets of civilian supremacy in a democracy have been alarmed by these reported provisions.

PA speaker for dialogue on the amendment

In response, the HRCP has announced plans to hold an urgent consultation with a wide range of stakeholders. The purpose of this consultation will be to examine the proposed amendment and its potential far-reaching impact on the country’s polity and society.

PA Speaker: Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has called for a transparent dialogue on the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment, which has already been tabled in the Senate.

Talking to the media on Sunday, he termed dialogue essential to strengthen the credibility of the parliament.

Referring to the change in higher courts judges’ appointment being suggested in the amendment, he said the parliamentary oversight of judicial appointments and accountability would enhance the parliament’s stature.

Responding to a question on defence and security matters, he appreciated the services of the armed forces, noting that ensuring national integrity and public protection was everyone’s primary responsibility.

The speaker attended a ceremony of a private college and addressing the participants he said he would speak from the heart to the young generation. He said guiding youth towards knowledge, research and character-building should be a top priority.

Highlighting the challenges facing the country, he stated that the future depended on the mental, practical, and moral preparedness of this generation, and when students entered universities or professional fields, the words spoken today would resonate in their minds that Pakistan’s future lay in their hands.

Speaker Khan stressed equality in education, healthcare, and sports opportunities, stating that decisions should be based on the fair distribution of resources so that rights were not limited to a few. He reiterated his support for women’s education and their positive role in societal participation, emphasizing that true development is possible only when half of the population was not left behind.

He expressed pride in a Kasur student who secured first position in the Lahore board.

Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2025