PJC orders forensic, prison reforms

PESHAWAR:

The Provincial Justice Committee (PJC), chaired by Peshawar High Court Chief Justice Justice SM Atiq Shah, has decided to streamline inter-provincial transfer procedures for accused persons, bolster the forensic system, establish district-level laboratories, and enhance security and facilities in prisons.

The committee emphasized improving the safe and transparent custody of seized evidence, explosive materials, and vehicles related to cases. It also resolved to implement measures for better monitoring of samples in narcotics cases and the creation of separate malkhanas (property rooms).

The 14th meeting of the PJC was held Friday at the Peshawar High Court, with detailed discussions on making the justice system more effective, coordinated, and people-friendly. Key decisions focused on modernizing investigative processes and addressing longstanding challenges in the criminal justice framework.

Addressing the meeting, Chief Justice SM Atiq Shah stated that providing prompt, affordable, and transparent justice is a constitutional responsibility of the state.