Archaic law: Civil society, tribesmen call for FCR’s abolishment
Term the law an obstacle in bringing peace, development to the tribal areas.
"Societies cannot remain stagnant forever, and it is time tribesmen move forward towards peace, progress and development," Center for Research and Security Studies chief Imtiaz Gul. PHOTO: File
KOHAT:
Civil society members and residents of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata) demanded on Monday that the Frontier Crimes Regulations (FCR) be abolished as it is a “draconian” law.
During a seminar titled ‘FCR: Need of Reformation, Challenges and Way Forward’ organised by the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), participants also demanded changes in the present system of governance in Fata.
CRSS chief Imtiaz Gul, while addressing the participants, said the seminar was held to discuss and envision a system to safeguard Fata’s social, economic, political and legal interests.
“Societies cannot remain stagnant forever, and it is time tribesmen move forward towards peace, progress and development,” said Gul.
He said the FCR lacked the fundamental principles of justice and equality, and has failed to dispense justice to residents of Fata. “The draconian law remains an obstacle in bringing peace and prosperity to the region,” remarked Gul.
The speaker further added it was imperative to adopt an inclusive system in Fata which would address core issues that tribesmen face. “A superior judiciary bench needs to be established so people can have access to justice,” Gul concluded.
Several lawyers, representatives of political parties, media personnel, tribal elders and students belonging to tribal areas attended
the seminar.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 31st, 2013.
Civil society members and residents of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata) demanded on Monday that the Frontier Crimes Regulations (FCR) be abolished as it is a “draconian” law.
During a seminar titled ‘FCR: Need of Reformation, Challenges and Way Forward’ organised by the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), participants also demanded changes in the present system of governance in Fata.
CRSS chief Imtiaz Gul, while addressing the participants, said the seminar was held to discuss and envision a system to safeguard Fata’s social, economic, political and legal interests.
“Societies cannot remain stagnant forever, and it is time tribesmen move forward towards peace, progress and development,” said Gul.
He said the FCR lacked the fundamental principles of justice and equality, and has failed to dispense justice to residents of Fata. “The draconian law remains an obstacle in bringing peace and prosperity to the region,” remarked Gul.
The speaker further added it was imperative to adopt an inclusive system in Fata which would address core issues that tribesmen face. “A superior judiciary bench needs to be established so people can have access to justice,” Gul concluded.
Several lawyers, representatives of political parties, media personnel, tribal elders and students belonging to tribal areas attended
the seminar.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 31st, 2013.