ISLAMABAD: A parliamentary panel on Monday unanimously rejected the proposed amendment to the Elections Act, 2017, seeking an increase in the five percent quota for women on general seats.
The meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Parliamentary Affairs was held at Parliament House under the chairmanship of Senator Khalil Tahir. The Committee undertook a detailed review of the proposed amendment to the Elections Act, 2017, introduced by Senator Dr. Zarqa Suharwardi Taimur in the Senate on January 19, 2026, as well as matters relating to the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.
During the meeting, Senator Dr. Zarqa Suharwardi Taimur emphasized the need to enhance women’s political representation, stating that the existing five percent quota for women on general seats under the Elections Act, 2017, should be increased. She highlighted that women constitute nearly 50 percent of the country’s population and stressed the importance of providing equal opportunities to women, particularly those who do not belong to political families, to participate in elections. She further proposed ensuring the provision of facilities for persons with disabilities at all polling stations, including the construction of ramps to facilitate ease of access for voters.
The Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, informed the Committee that amendments to the Elections Act are introduced from time to time, and the proposals under consideration have been reviewed in consultation with relevant institutions, including the Election Commission and the Ministry of Law. He noted that while the proposals are valuable, their practical feasibility must also be carefully assessed.
Officials of the Election Commission briefed the Committee that a comprehensive survey is conducted before elections to identify polling stations with maximum available facilities, including electricity, boundary walls, washrooms, water supply, and ramps. They suggested that such proposals may be more effectively incorporated into the Election Commission’s administrative guidelines rather than being made part of the law.
Senator Kamran Murtaza underscored the importance of ensuring effective implementation of existing laws and cautioned against enacting provisions that may not be practically enforceable. Senator Pervaiz Rashid echoed similar views, stating that many of the proposed measures are already being addressed by the Election Commission. He further remarked that election laws are sensitive and complex in nature, and any amendments should be carefully considered to enhance transparency and public trust without creating undue difficulties for political parties. He suggested that political parties should deliberate on such proposals internally and bring forward consensus-based recommendations.
Senator Khalida Ateeb observed that a significant proportion of members in her party belong to the middle class. Sharing her personal experience, she stated that she rose from being a school teacher to becoming a Senator based on merit and capability.
On the agenda relating to the Public Sector Development Programme, the Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, informed the Committee that the Ministry currently has no projects under the PSDP.
The meeting was attended by Senators Khalil Tahir, Khalida Ateeb, Pervaiz Rashid, Kamran Murtaza, and Dr. Zarqa Suharwardi Taimur, along with the Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, and officials of the Election Commission of Pakistan
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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