Key Takeaways
- State Minister Tallal Chaudhry outlines stringent measures to ensure blue passports are used only for official duties.
- The number of blue passport holders is set to be reduced by 15-20 percent, with discussions ongoing for visa-free travel agreements.
- Political parties will decide the fate of a bill seeking issuance of blue passports to ex-parliamentarians' children.
In response to criticism over a proposed law allowing former parliamentarians’ children to receive blue passports, State Minister for Interior Tallal Chaudhry has outlined more stringent measures. The minister assured that each application would be processed only after approval from the interior ministry and its secretary.
Chaudhry stated during an interview with Dawn that the travel document will now be used strictly for 'only official duties' abroad, and issued on a limited basis in most cases. He also acknowledged that Pakistan currently has a large number of blue passport holders, which he described as a significant impediment to signing visa abolition agreements with other countries.
According to Chaudhry, the number of blue passports issued in the country was recently reduced from around 70,000 to less than 50,000. He added that it would now be further reduced by 15-20 percent. The minister highlighted ongoing discussions on an agreement for visa exemption with Saudi Arabia and negotiations with other countries including Italy.
Chaudhry emphasized that the fate of the bill seeking issuance of blue passports to dependent children under the age of 28 of ex-members of parliament would be decided by political parties. He stated, 'A decision on supporting or opposing the bill is to be taken by the political leadership.'
He further suggested that if the purpose of the legislation was to bring former parliamentarians on par with retired Grade-22 government officers, a better course would be an amendment to remove the facility available to retired bureaucrats. Chaudhry also mentioned that discussions are ongoing for bringing down the number of blue passport holders.
In his press statement, Chaudhry clarified that despite his reservations, he had informed the Senate Standing Committee on Interior about the need to discuss the bill with the federal cabinet and other stakeholders before proceeding. He said, 'Despite my reservations, they proceeded to pass the bill.'
The minister also addressed concerns regarding the number of blue passport holders, stating, 'Our focus is on having agreements for visa-free entry with as many countries as possible.' He added that discussions are at an advanced stage with Saudi Arabia and negotiations with some other countries including Italy are ongoing.
While Chaudhry’s statement aimed to clarify the government's stance, it also highlighted the challenges in managing a large number of blue passport holders. The minister’s measures reflect a concerted effort to streamline the process and align with international travel norms.
Each case will be referred to the interior secretary, and if need be, to the interior minister.
Tallal Chaudhry, State Minister for Interior
'A decision on supporting or opposing the bill is to be taken by the political leadership.'
Tallal Chaudhry, State Minister for Interior
