Convict seeks remission on special occasions
A division bench headed by Justice Aalia Neelum fixed a case for arguments on a petition seeking remission in punishment, awarded under terrorism charges, of hardened criminals on the eve of special occasions.
As the proceedings commenced, the counsel of the petitioner Nahib (criminal) implored the court that it was tantamount to deprive right of hardened criminals if their concern was not addressed.
He contended the court that it was discrimination with those hardened criminals if they were not given remission in their punishment.
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While on the other hand, the other criminals were being given remission in their punishments on the eve of special occasions.
Punjab Prisons Judicial Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Dr Qadeer Alam opposing remission in punishments of the hardened criminals argued those who were awarded sentences under anti-terrorism charges could not be entitled to the remission.
He contended the court that ‘remission’ was a matter which belonged to the President of Pakistan.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 9th, 2021.