Daily Times

Sir: The government is taking steps to deal with terrorism by establishing military courts. This objective of the government would have been better achieved through the existing courts. Existing terrorism laws should have been applied effectively. Lack of strong evidence and political will have made a shambles of the courts. Amendments in the law can be made to empower and well equip civil courts and law enforcement agencies. The witnesses in respective cases should be provided additional security. Judges can be provided with advanced information. Intelligence agencies can assist judges. The investigating agencies can be upgraded in training to collect more evidence through scientific means. Technological advancements can become an effective tool for both judges and security agencies to combat terrorism.

The massacre in Peshawar has left challenging question marks on the ineffectiveness of the security system against terrorists. Why are terrorists not convicted by the courts? Flawed investigation, lack of evidence or the fear of the terrorists — all these reasons lead to those accused of terrorism being freed. The government has established these military courts to get fast justice but the long-term effects need to be considered. The Constitution of Pakistan 1973 clearly states separation of power between the executive, legislature, and judiciary. The right of power should not violate fundamental rights of the people.

Establishing specialized military courts is a short-term solution. The government should strengthen the institutional integrity of the civil judicial system.

FATIMA MANSOOR

Rawalpindi