Vol. 5 No. 1 (2022): Pakistan Journal of International Affairs
Articles

POLICE AND PROSECUTION’S PERSPECTIVE ON LOW CONVICTION RATES IN PAKISTAN

Published 2022-03-23

Abstract

The CJS comprises several interconnected pillars, including forensic services, law enforcement agencies, the legal system, and penal facilities. The police conduct the necessary investigations and issue challans against the accused, leaving the legal battle to the prosecutors. The prosecution process is a necessary component of the CJS. Prosecutors are responsible for proving an accused person's guilt in court. The courts cannot punish someone unless facts and witnesses establish their offense per Qanoon-eShahadat (Law of Evidence). Thus, in criminal cases, this function is fulfilled by prosecutors, who attempt to prove the claims against the accused based on the police investigation and the use of circumstantial and visual evidence gathered primarily by the police. The criminal justice system in Pakistan is far from impregnable. At least within the department of police and prosecution, there appears to be an incentive to improve performance. However, without the unwavering devotion of CJ professionals, fundamental rights cannot be granted or protected.