The Senate of Pakistan has approved a bill to increase salaries and perks for parliamentarians by a majority vote, despite objections from some members.

The session, chaired by Deputy Chairman Syedal Khan, saw the Parliamentarians’ Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025 presented by Senator Danesh Kumar.

The bill was passed unanimously, but after certain members objected, a formal vote was conducted, leading to its approval.

During the session, Syedal Khan directed that the names of those who opposed the bill be recorded.

Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the salary hike, stating that any member unwilling to accept the increase should submit a written declaration.

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He urged lawmakers to avoid politicizing the matter, emphasising that similar measures had been taken at the provincial level. His remarks prompted loud protests from the opposition, forcing the deputy chairman to intervene and call for order.

Meanwhile, the Income Tax Ordinance (Amendment) Bill 2025 was presented by Senator Zeeshan Khanzada, but Minister of State for Finance Ali Pervaiz Malik opposed it.

The State Bank of Pakistan (Amendment) Bill 2023, introduced by Senator Mohsin Aziz, also sparked debate, with Aziz refusing to withdraw or refer it to any committee, insisting it should be discussed in the Senate.

The Legal Practitioners & Bar Councils (Amendment) Bill 2025 was postponed due to the absence of Farooq H. Naek, who is currently abroad.

The University of Business Sciences & Technology Bill 2025, presented by Senator Abdul Shakoor, was referred to the relevant standing committee.

The session concluded with prayers for the victims of terrorism and accidents, including workers killed in Swat. Senator Shahadat Awan led the prayers.