Undeniably disappointing that despite military courtsm no significant improvement has been observed
KARACHI: Among many loopholes within the justice system of Pakistan, one is of long procedural trials and prosecution. Almost all of the high-profile corruption and murder cases have taken almost over a decade for their closure or the awarding of verdict. In fact, for many, trials and hearings are still in process with least chances of the verdict being given any time soon. Similar to Benazir’s murder case, another case of terrorism was the blast on the Rabiul Awwal congregation back in 2006. The blast killed over 50 people, including the top leadership of the Sunni-Tehreek and other political parties.
The primary suspects were alleged to be linked with the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, a banned militant terrorist outfit. The trials for the case began in an anti-terrorism court. However, the case has not been disposed or closed as of yet since only 50 out of 200 witnesses have been heard. While delayed proceedings of the case are itself a violation of the law, it also points out at the state of the legal and justice system in Pakistan. As a matter of fact, a period spanning over 11 years would have certainly affected evidences produced before the court, the accounts given by the witnesses and other important matters related to the case.
It is undeniably disappointing that despite military courts being set up in the country, no significant improvement has been observed with regard to the high-profile cases and their resolution.
Yusra Amin
Published in The Express Tribune, December 4th, 2017.
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