Published on, Sept. 1 -- September 1, 2025 1:15 AM

President Asif Ali Zardari has signed the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2025, into law. On the surface, this might seem like just another legal update. What makes this amendment significant is that it empowers law enforcement agencies and the armed forces to detain individuals for up to three months without trial if they are suspected of terrorism or considered a threat to national security. Supporters argue this measure will strengthen efforts to curb terrorism, while officials maintain that safeguards and judicial oversight will prevent misuse.

Even so, the legislation raises delicate questions about how Pakistan balances security with constitutional protections. Article 10 of the ...