The District Coordination and District Security Committees on Thursday approved a foolproof security system and its upgrade for the district courts and Judicial Complex in Rawalpindi owing to serious security threats.
The meeting was chaired by District and Sessions Judge Sardar Akram, with the City Police Officer (CPO), the Deputy Commissioner (DC), and President of the Rawalpindi District Bar (RDA) Sardar Manzar Bashir also in attendance.
The meeting approved the installation of new closed-circuit cameras, new walk-through gates, and an increase in police personnel at the district courts.
RDA president Manzar Bashir pointed out that all cameras and walk-through gates at the district courts were either broken or malfunctioning, and the police force was also insufficient to cater to the security needs. As a result, the approval was granted to make the security at the district courts foolproof.
Under the plan, new closed-circuit cameras will be installed, approximately 60 faulty cameras will be repaired, and the police presence at the district courts and Judicial Complex will be increased.
The District and Sessions Judge emphasised that given the current security situation in the country, increasing security is essential and no compromise should be made on the security system.
The meeting also approved improvements in the provision of water, the repair of restrooms, and the enhancement of security at the Bakhshi Khana for under-trial prisoners. Currently, 77 closed-circuit cameras are installed at the courts, of which 47 are completely out of order.
The remaining cameras do not display video footage properly, and all four walk-through gates are also broken and dysfunctional. Additionally, the police security personnel are operating at 30% below the required strength, which will now be addressed.
Sources said about 20,000 to 25,000 people visit the district courts daily. There are hundreds of lawyers' chambers present on the premises, while government offices, their staff and officers also perform their duties.
The representatives of the bar association and policemen had also demanded in writing to the Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner's office to upgrade the courts' security system with immediate replacement of walk-through gates and CCTV cameras.
The decision to enhance security comes in response to rising concerns about the safety of those visiting and working at the district courts. With a high daily footfall and the presence of numerous legal professionals and government staff, the upgraded security measures are seen as crucial to prevent any potential threats. The swift action taken by the District Coordination and Security Committees aims to restore public confidence and ensure a safer environment for all those involved in legal proceedings.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ