📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Andy Li
Politics
Amnesty Criticizes Punjab's New Anti-Terror Law, Warns of Secret Trials
✍️ Asianet Newsable
🗓 10 Oct 2026, 06:02 PM
👁 15
Amnesty International has condemned the newly enacted anti‑terror law in Punjab, citing concerns over potential secret trials and human rights violations.
Amnesty International released a statement today condemning the recently passed anti‑terror law in Punjab. The organization expressed alarm that the legislation could lead to secret trials and undermine due process. Amnesty highlighted that the law grants broad powers to authorities, potentially allowing detentions without transparent judicial oversight. It warned that such measures could erode fundamental rights and set a dangerous precedent for other states.
The law, which aims to curb terrorism, has been criticized for its vague definitions and lack of safeguards for accused individuals. Amnesty's spokesperson emphasized that any legal framework must balance security concerns with the protection of civil liberties. The organization urged the Punjab government to amend the bill to ensure accountability and transparency in judicial proceedings.
Amnesty also called for independent monitoring of the law’s implementation, suggesting that international human rights bodies should be involved. It stressed that secret trials would contravene international norms and could lead to wrongful convictions.
The criticism comes as Punjab prepares to enforce the new legislation. Human rights advocates across the country are watching closely, hoping that the government will address Amnesty’s concerns before the law takes effect.
The law, which aims to curb terrorism, has been criticized for its vague definitions and lack of safeguards for accused individuals. Amnesty's spokesperson emphasized that any legal framework must balance security concerns with the protection of civil liberties. The organization urged the Punjab government to amend the bill to ensure accountability and transparency in judicial proceedings.
Amnesty also called for independent monitoring of the law’s implementation, suggesting that international human rights bodies should be involved. It stressed that secret trials would contravene international norms and could lead to wrongful convictions.
The criticism comes as Punjab prepares to enforce the new legislation. Human rights advocates across the country are watching closely, hoping that the government will address Amnesty’s concerns before the law takes effect.