The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly has introduced a new bill that proposes a wide range of privileges and legal protections for provincial lawmakers. Among the most notable proposals are lifetime Blue Passports, additional legal immunity, firearm licences, toll tax exemptions and expanded official powers.
The proposed legislation, titled the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Powers, Immunities and Privileges Act, 2026, was introduced in the PTI-led provincial assembly. If passed, the law would significantly increase the benefits and authority available to Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs).
One of the key provisions of the bill is the issuance of lifetime Blue Passports to lawmakers. The proposal also extends the same privilege to the spouses of MPAs.
According to the draft legislation, lawmakers and their spouses would receive official government passports, Assembly identity cards and access to VIP airport lounges across Pakistan. These measures are intended to provide official travel facilities for elected representatives.
Another major proposal relates to the legal protection of lawmakers. Under the draft law, no MPA could be arrested or placed under administrative detention without prior approval from the Speaker of the Assembly.
The Speaker would also have the authority to seek reports from relevant authorities regarding any proposed action against a legislator. In certain situations, detained lawmakers could be temporarily released to attend Assembly sessions or committee meetings.
The bill also proposes enhanced security arrangements for elected representatives. Every MPA would receive Category B security, while Category A security could be provided in cases involving higher threat levels.
The legislation includes provisions regarding firearm licences as well. Each lawmaker would be eligible for up to eight non-prohibited bore firearm licences.
According to the proposal, four licences would be issued free of cost, while the remaining four could be obtained after payment of the prescribed government fee.
The draft law also grants lawmakers exemptions from toll taxes across the country. They would also receive free accommodation at government circuit houses, rest houses and dak bungalows.
The proposed legislation would further expand the official authority of MPAs. Lawmakers would be allowed to inspect government departments, hospitals, prisons, schools and development projects.
In addition, they would receive the powers of a Justice of the Peace. The bill also allows lawmakers to use special Assembly vehicle registration plates and drive vehicles fitted with tinted windows.
The Assembly itself would gain stronger enforcement powers if the bill becomes law. Committees would be authorised to summon individuals, request official records and issue warrants against those who fail to appear before them.
The proposed law also introduces new rules governing media coverage of Assembly proceedings. Publishing reports considered misleading or violating publication restrictions imposed by the Speaker could result in legal action.
The Speaker would also be empowered to restrict or revoke Assembly access for journalists and media representatives under certain circumstances.
The proposed legislation has attracted attention because of the broad range of benefits it offers, including lifetime Blue Passports, expanded legal protections and additional official powers. The bill will now proceed through the legislative process before any of its provisions can become law.
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