Islamabad, December 18, 2024: The National Assembly on Wednesday approved the National Forensic Science Laboratory Bill 2024 with a majority vote. The bill, presented by Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi, aims to establish the National Forensic Agency with its headquarters in Islamabad, providing forensic services across all provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir.
The agency will focus on electronic device forensics, digital and cyber forensics, addressing deepfakes, and tackling electronic and cybercrimes. It seeks to reduce dependence on foreign expertise while enhancing national capabilities in forensic science and criminal investigations. The agency will assist in national security matters, provide expert services to courts, and support law enforcement agencies.
The agency will operate under a Board of Governors chaired by the Secretary of the concerned division, with members including the Inspector General of Islamabad, the National Coordinator of NACTA, and the Director General of the National Police Bureau. A three-member executive committee will oversee financial and administrative affairs and act on behalf of the Board in emergencies.
The Director General of the agency will be appointed within six months, with the Prime Minister authorized to designate an acting DG (minimum Grade 20) during the interim period. The DG will not be allowed to hold dual citizenship. Additionally, the agency will establish a digital forensic lab and upgrade existing conventional forensic facilities to strengthen Pakistan’s capacity in forensic science.
PPP leader Shazia Marri raised concerns about inconsistencies in the bill, pointing out the inconsistent use of the term “prime minister,” which might cause confusion. She also proposed increasing fines for official misconduct from Rs. 0.1 million to Rs. 0.5 million. Already approved by the Senate, the bill is expected to significantly enhance Pakistan’s forensic science infrastructure and contribute to improving public safety and the country’s criminal justice system.
