All lives matter

Letter October 06, 2020
Fixing an eroded, rusted system based on colonial principles is not possible overnight. However, the policymakers need to come up with a clear and organised plan if justice is to be enforced

KARACHI:

In the last few weeks, not a single day has passed where news regarding rape, murder, child molestation and other heinous crimes of similar nature haven’t been brought to the forefront. As a matter of fact, people have developed apathy to such incidents as if it is a routine. This alarming situation incites a rather basic question; are we really safe in this country?

Pakistan was formed upon the tenets of providing a safe, secure and prosperous environment to its denizens without any discrimination. However, these claims are nothing more than lip service as ground realities present quite a bleak picture. The unending series of the gruesome crimes mentioned above and many more shows that those in power remain above the law. The murder case of young Shahzeb and a clean chit given to ex-MPA of Balochistan few days ago are a few examples that portray the crocked nature of our justice system. Even the Attorney General for Pakistan could not deny this bitter reality and confessed that justice remains lopsided and only caters to those holding power.

Fixing an eroded and rusted system based on colonial principles is not possible overnight. However, the policymakers need to come up with a clear and organised plan if justice is to be enforced. Police reforms and legislation for the deterrence of such inhuman crimes are necessary in order to provide security and justice to the common man.

Awaisullah Khan Babar

Saudi Arabia

Published in The Express Tribune, October 6th, 2020.

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