National Assembly Passes New Anti-Human Trafficking Bill 2025 — Tough Action Against Beggary Gangs
Published On 12 Mar, 2026
National Assembly Passes New Anti-Human Trafficking Bill 2025 — Tough Action Against Beggary Gangs and Exploitation
Pakistan’s National Assembly has passed an amendment bill to strengthen the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act 2018. The new law introduces stricter punishment and new rules to stop human trafficking, organized begging networks, and sexual exploitation.
The government says the amendments are needed to better protect people, especially women and children, and to take strong action against criminal gangs involved in trafficking.
Key Changes in the New Bill
1. Sexual exploitation clearly defined
The bill adds a clear legal definition of sexual exploitation, which means abusing someone’s vulnerability or trust for sexual purposes or profit.
2. Organized begging declared a crime
The law now recognizes organized beggary as part of human trafficking.
This includes forcing or convincing people to beg in public places or using them to collect money.
Authorities say many begging gangs send people abroad or force them to beg locally, so this law targets those criminal networks.
3. Harsher punishments
Punishments for trafficking crimes have been increased.
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Up to 10 years in prison for trafficking activities
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Up to 14 years in prison and fines up to 2 million rupees for serious cases
These stronger penalties aim to discourage criminal groups.
4. Victims will not be treated as criminals
If someone is forced into trafficking or illegal activities by traffickers, they will not be punished for those actions.
Instead, they may become witnesses in court against the traffickers.
5. Special courts for international trafficking
If the crime involves transporting victims into or out of Pakistan, the case will be handled by special courts dealing with serious crimes.
Why the Government Introduced This Bill
According to the bill’s statement, Pakistani diplomatic missions in Gulf countries, Iraq, and Malaysia reported that some organized groups send people abroad for begging.
The government says stricter laws were needed to stop these gangs and protect Pakistan’s reputation internationally.
Short Summary
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New law strengthens anti-trafficking rules
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Organized begging gangs will face strict action
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Punishments increased up to 14 years jail
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Victims of trafficking will not be punished
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Special courts will handle international trafficking cases
