Questionable remission

While remission can be granted on the basis of good conduct, the math does not seem to add up

Shah Hussain, the man who was convicted and sentenced for stabbing law student Khadija Siddiqui 23 times, has managed to secure an early release after only serving three and a half years of his original five-year sentence. The Punjab government’s explanation that Hussain did not receive “legal remission” but was instead granted “technical remission” has added fuel to the fire, causing much uproar on social media. The decision has been heavily criticised by lawyers and activists who claim that officials have favoured the perpetrator due to his influential background instead of acting in accordance with the law.

While remission can be granted on the basis of good conduct, the math of this particular case does not seem to add up. Even if a three-day per month remission is granted – as is the norm – the perpetrator can be released 4-6 months early at the most. It goes to show that officials are least bothered about the culture of violence against women that has now been brought to the limelight. The fact that officials didn’t even bother telling the victim of his release shows complete disregard for the law and the victims.

If culprits of such vicious crimes can get their sentence significantly reduced on the basis of good conduct then Khadija is right: “all prisoners should be issued character certificates and released in public”. Why pick and choose the people for whom laws and loopholes are used? If there are laws that allow for such a “generous” remission then indeed there is a flaw in the system. I stand corrected; there are many flaws in our justice system that are constantly exploited by the rich and powerful. They only work to subdue the poor and vulnerable.

It is the responsibility of the state to ensure justice. Institutions are made for the people, not to subdue them. The incumbent government needs to radically amend existing laws to put an end to the culture of impunity. By not doing so, the state is encouraging criminals.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2021.

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