CJP calls for criminal justice system revamp

Says local, foreign entities doing business in Pakistan entitled to security, effective dispute resolution mechanisms


Hasnaat Malik May 05, 2018
Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar. PHOTO: FILE

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar has called for revamping of both the limbs of the criminal justice system – investigation agencies as well as criminal courts – for peace and revival of the economy.

“The implementation of law and guarantee of safety of person, business and property are essential for restoring the faith of investors in a country’s economy. At the root of political and economic stability lies the criminal justice system, which provides the foundation for the state and the economy to thrive.

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“For this, both the limbs of the criminal justice system must be revamped, the investigation agencies as well as the criminal courts. Previously formulated policies in this regard must be reexamined,” said the CJP on Friday while addressing at the Inaugural Ceremony of the 8th Judicial Conference.

Justice Nisar said local businesses and individuals, as well as foreign entities and individuals that have chosen Pakistan for their investment activities, are entitled to security and effective dispute resolution mechanisms with respect to intellectual property as well as their investments.

“I would like to point out that small businesses are expected to receive a boost from the economic opportunities of CPEC [China-Pakistan Economic Corridor].

“Therefore, effective ADR [alternative dispute resolution] mechanisms must be developed and encouraged to optimise the utility of the same at all levels of the economy.

“It is often the small and medium level businesses which are attracted by the cost-saving benefits of ADR, not to mention the attraction of avoiding prolonged litigation,” he added.

The CJP said that another important theme of this conference is one that is close to his heart – the problem of delays and the backlog of cases in our legal system.

“I use the words 'legal system’ instead of ‘judicial system’ because I believe that the bar and judiciary are equally responsible for the same. It is only when we join hands to eradicate such problems that we can rid the nation of this menace.

“We are all familiar with the issue of chronic delays in the dispensation of justice. Being head of the judiciary of Pakistan, I am committed to revamping the system through various modes including judicial reforms. However, this issue needs to be addressed by adopting a holistic and synchronized approach.”

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He said it is vital for all relevant institutions to coordinate and work together for reducing delays in the finalisation of legal disputes.

The CJP said investor confidence and transfer of technology are directly proportionate to the protection of intellectual property, the realm of intellectual property rights needs special attention.

"Our friend and CPEC partner China has one of the five largest Patent Registration Offices in the World. Pakistan is in the process of streamlining its legal regime and institutions in this area. But much needs to be done. We must ensure that adequate legal information is available to our citizens and business entities when it comes to venturing into business with citizens and corporations of other countries."

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