Senator Sarmad Ali Withdraws Smoking Bill, Promises New Legislation on Shisha and Flavored Tobacco
Nadeem Tanoli
ISLAMABAD – The Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services saw a major shift in its agenda on smoking legislation when Senator Sarmad Ali, the mover of the proposed amendment, formally withdrew his bill. Instead, he announced that he would introduce a new, more comprehensive law targeting shisha, flavored tobacco, and non-nicotine products that are currently not covered under existing legislation.
The discussion began with Agenda Item 2, “The Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health (Amendment) Bill, 2025.” However, Senator Sarmad Ali surprised the committee by revealing that he had already held consultations with the Ministry of Health’s Director-General. After these talks, it was agreed that the existing amendment would not move forward and a revised, stronger bill would be drafted.
Explaining the rationale, Senator Ali stated that the new bill would broaden the scope of tobacco regulation. It would specifically address the growing use of shisha and flavored tobacco products, alongside non-nicotine items which remain unregulated under current law. “We have come to the conclusion that we will bring a new, revised bill,” he said, confirming the expanded vision for tobacco control.
Following a procedural clarification from a Ministry of Law representative, the committee confirmed that the old bill could not simply be amended but needed to be withdrawn and reintroduced in its entirety. Senator Ali agreed, formally withdrawing the 2025 amendment bill during the session.
The Health Minister praised the collaborative approach between Senator Sarmad Ali and his ministry, noting that the decision was reached after hours of consultations and technical discussions. Lawmakers expressed hope that the new legislation would close regulatory loopholes and offer stronger protection for non-smokers.
Smoking Bill Withdrawn; New Law on Shisha and Flavored Tobacco Planned
