PHC bench takes up justice reforms

Five-judge panel to review flaws in police, prosecution, and justice system

PESHAWAR:

A five-member larger bench of the Peshawar High Court (PHC), headed by Chief Justice SM Atiq Shah, is set to hear petitions today concerning flaws and proposed reforms in the police investigation system, prosecution process, and the overall criminal justice system.

The court has directed the Inspector General of Police, Additional Chief Secretary, Secretary Law, and Additional IGP (Investigation) to appear in person and submit written comments. In addition, various departments, including the Prosecution Directorate, have been instructed to present their written responses.

Those asked to submit reports include Additional Attorney General Sanaullah, Advocate General Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Shah Faisal Utmankhel, senior lawyers Shabir Hussain Gigyani, Barrister Ameerullah Chamkani, Muhammad Hamdan, and Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, along with Peshawar High Court Bar Association President Ameenur Rehman Yousafzai and other legal and departmental representatives. Some have already submitted their written suggestions, aimed at identifying and addressing weaknesses in the system.

During the hearing, the five-member bench will listen to lawyers and officials from all relevant departments to seek practical recommendations for improving the existing criminal justice framework. The bench has instructed participants to assist the court in identifying structural gaps and proposing reforms for a more efficient justice system.

Earlier, the larger bench had also sought reports from District and Sessions Judges across various districts on pending cases and related issues, which have now been submitted. The Prison Department and other concerned institutions were similarly directed to file their responses.

It may be recalled that the petitions were filed by members of the Peshawar High Court Bar, highlighting procedural flaws in police investigations, prosecution, and other components of the criminal justice system. The petitioners contended that such deficiencies have hindered citizens' access to prompt and fair justice. Acting on these concerns, the Chief Justice constituted the larger bench to engage all stakeholders in formulating concrete reform proposals.