Lahore: Punjab government has accorded approval to include new clause 21AAA in Anti Terrorism Act- 1997.

Punjab government gave approval to introduce separate judicial procedure in respect of special security cases.

Under amendment specific terrorism cases can be declared special security cases.

The nominated authority will be entitled to declare the cases of extra ordinary security concerns special security cases.

Chief Justice Lahore High Court will nominate special judges out of ATC judges in special security cases.

In special security cases, Prosecutor General of Punjab (PGP) will provide panel comprising five prosecutors. The nominated authority will appoint one prosecutor out of panel of prosecutors.

Specific identity code will be given to witnesses instead of their original name in special security cases. Name of judges and prosecutors will not be published in official gazette in special security cases. The complete judicial record of terrorism cases will be sealed and kept safe with chief justice of Lahore High Court.

Technology for changing voice will be allowed to be used to hide identity. Hearing of special security cases will be held only in secure places.

Punjab government will appoint officer of grade-20 or above nominated authority. The nominated authority will be authorized to make consultation with the chief justice of LHC. The nominated authority will be empowered to declare case special security case or otherwise.

The nominated authority will ensure connectivity with the government and monitor implementation.