An in-camera session is a special closed-door meeting held to discuss highly sensitive matters. Such sessions are restricted to selected participants, excluding media and the general public.
Globally, especially in parliamentary and governmental systems, in-camera sessions are convened when discussions involve national security, foreign relations, or classified information. In Pakistan, these sessions have been held on multiple occasions, particularly concerning national security, sensitive diplomatic issues, and defense matters.
However, in-camera sessions often become controversial as their decisions are not disclosed to the public, leading to speculation and doubts.
Legal and Constitutional Standing of In-Camera Sessions
Under the Constitution and parliamentary traditions of Pakistan, in-camera sessions are permitted. The National Assembly, Senate, or any official committee has the authority to convene such meetings, especially when the discussion involves critical national interests.
Throughout Pakistan’s parliamentary history, several in-camera sessions have taken place, covering military, diplomatic, and internal security matters.
Notable In-Camera Sessions in Pakistan
1. National Security Briefing (2021)
In June 2021, an in-camera session was convened where military leadership briefed parliamentarians on national security matters. Discussions included the Afghan situation, India-Pakistan relations, and internal security challenges. Many critical points were deliberated, but the details remained undisclosed to the public.
2. The Dawn Leaks Controversy and Closed-Door Meeting (2016)
An in-camera session was called over the Dawn Leaks issue, where both military and political leadership discussed a controversial news leak concerning national security. The confidential nature of the session fueled speculation, as the decisions made remained undisclosed.
3. Panama Papers Case and Closed Sessions
During the Panama Papers case, in-camera sessions were held to discuss legal and constitutional aspects. Key deliberations were kept confidential, sparking debates about transparency in high-profile corruption cases.
4. Army Chief’s Tenure Extension (2019)
In 2019, an in-camera session was held regarding the extension of Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa’s tenure. The session involved discussions between the government and military leadership, but the details remained classified.
Support and Criticism of In-Camera Sessions
Arguments in Favor
National Security: These sessions deal with matters that, if publicly disclosed, could compromise national interests.
Protection of Classified Information: Sensitive diplomatic or defense-related information could be exploited by adversaries if made public.
Fearless Consultation: Politicians and officials can speak openly without media scrutiny or public pressure.
Lack of Transparency: Since the decisions are not disclosed, the public remains unaware of crucial governmental actions.
Fueling Conspiracies: The secrecy surrounding these meetings often leads to speculation and misinformation.
Potential for Misuse: Some governments may use in-camera sessions to conceal incompetence or unpopular decisions.
The Future of In-Camera Sessions in Pakistan
In a country like Pakistan, where national security concerns are highly sensitive, in-camera sessions play a vital role. However, for public trust and transparency, the government and institutions should provide limited but necessary information about these sessions to prevent unnecessary speculation.
The purpose of an in-camera session should be to safeguard national interests, but it should not become a routine tool for secrecy. The effectiveness of such meetings will depend on a balanced approach, ensuring both confidentiality and accountability in governance.
