I strongly believe in the concept that no one is guilty until proven otherwise.
ISLAMABAD: I most respectfully disagree with Mr Rumi, whom I hold in high esteem. As a lawyer, I strongly believe in the concept that no one is guilty until proven otherwise. Every crime is evaluated on merit and on the legal thresholds that are cardinal to the legal system. An example of this threshold in a murder conviction is that the crime be proved beyond reasonable doubt.
Rather than criticising the judiciary for giving a bad decision, the most important element is the lack of evidence provided by the prosecution. A judge cannot implicate an individual where there is lack of evidence. Clearly, there is a great need for reform in the police department, and in particular the forensics section, so that watertight cases can be prepared.
To the best of my knowledge, this element was lacking in the Mukhtaran Mai case, although my sympathies are with her.
Haaris Ramzan
Published in The Express Tribune, April 24th, 2011.
