The Senate passed the Pakistan Army Act (Amendment) Bill 2023 on Thursday with a majority, suggesting strict punishment for serving and retired servicemen involved in sharing state information. The proposed amendments in the bill, applicable only to serving and retired servicemen and have no bearing on civilians, aim to enhance the effectiveness of existing army laws. Read CJP's critical tone on military trial of civilians signals tough hearingIt also states that anyone who discloses information against the interests of the country and the Pakistan Army will be dealt with under the Official Secrets Act and the Army Act. The second provision deals with the participation of serving and retired servicemen in political activities. Serving and retired servicemen found intentionally defaming, ridiculing, or undermining the army will face punishment under Pakistan's electronic crimes laws, including the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act.
