The Senate Standing Committee on Interior on Thursday has approved a bill proposing strict penalties for individuals propagating Zionist ideology and displaying Zionist symbols within Pakistan.
The Criminal Law Amendment Bill, presented by Senator Afnanullah Khan, seeks to criminalise Zionist propaganda, claiming it fuels violence and undermines social harmony.
Addressing the committee, Senator Afnanullah Khan asserted, "Zionism promotes a divisive ideology globally. Its influence is especially damaging as seen in recent events in Gaza, where children have been martyred under this ideology."
He argued that Zionism encourages hostility, even advocating violence against dissenters, and emphasized the importance of curtailing such influences within Pakistan.
According to the bill, Zionism originated with Nathan Birnbaum in 1890 as an ethnic and religious movement but evolved into a political project aimed at establishing a Jewish homeland in Israel. This ideology, the bill argues, has often employed "extreme means" to achieve its objectives.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals found guilty of spreading Zionist propaganda could face up to three years in prison and a fine of Rs. 40,000.
Displaying Zionist symbols, on the other hand, would carry a lighter penalty of two years’ imprisonment and a Rs. 30,000 fine. Both offences would be classified as bailable and would not warrant immediate arrest.
"There are supporters of Zionist ideology here," noted Senator Khan, adding that the proposed law aims to counteract such influence.
