Remission for education

The Peshawar High Court has given the ruling that those convicted of espionage and involvement in anti-state activities are entitled to remission in prison sentence on the basis of educational qualifications they have acquired while serving out their sentences. A larger bench in its judgment on 14 petitions has said the Prison Rules 1978 that bar sentence remission for prisoners of the above-mentioned categories is not applicable to those who have acquired educational degrees while in prison. The issue is sensitive, but given the fact that the learned judges have given the decision, their ruling deserves to be given due consideration. The judiciary, one of the significant pillars of the state, is, under the Constitution of the country, entrusted with the task of interpreting the laws of the land.

According to the court ruling, “Education is an independent provision of the Prison Rules, which is covered neither by Section 201 (ordinary remission) nor Section 214 (special remission). Sections 201-A and 214-A place embargo on the grant of ordinary and special remissions only, while there is nothing in these provisions about the refusal of education remission and it seems quite logical and reasonable for the reason that those persons who are convicted of the offences referred above can transform themselves into good citizens by getting proper education, so they can lead a respectable and changed life after serving the sentence.”

The thirst for knowledge in such prisoners indicates that they repented the undesirable acts which they committed, and later decided to pursue education so that they can reform themselves and live as responsible citizens. Prisons are meant to reform those who stray from the correct path and indulge in activities harmful to the state and citizens. If prisoners reform themselves truly and zealously follow the pursuit of education so that they can undo their unsavoury past, they deserve to be dealt with humanely. They should be supported by society in their endeavour to change for the better. Good conduct should be rewarded. Since the issue relates to the well-being of the state, it becomes necessary to consider the inputs from the higher authorities.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 1^st, 2020.

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