Afghanistan's lower house of parliament has approved a law that would grant amnesty to all Afghans accused of human rights abuses during the past 25 years of conflict in the country.
The bill adopted Wednesday would rule out the prosecution of any political or militia group involved in the country's wars.
Supporters of the law say it will promote reconciliation and peace in Afghanistan. But, some Afghan lawmakers and government officials say there cannot be peace if war criminals escape justice.
International rights groups have urged the Afghan government to hold trials for Afghans accused of rights abuses, including some who are members of parliament.
The amnesty law must be approved by the upper house of parliament and signed by President Hamid Karzai to take effect.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP and Reuters.
