Daily Times

When an MNA, Anjum Aqeel Khan, of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) ran away from police custody on Friday night, there was naturally an outcry. Mr Khan was arrested for alleged misappropriation in the National Police Foundation. With the help of his party workers, Mr Khan forcibly fled from police custody. Interior Minister Rehman Malik took notice of the incident and asked Anjum Aqeel to “seek pardon from the nation and surrender” to the police. PML-N chief Mian Nawaz Sharif formed a committee to investigate the matter. Last night, Anjum Aqeel finally ‘surrendered’ to the police after pressure from his party leadership mounted. The police claim that they arrested him but PML-N members say he surrendered. Whether he surrendered himself or was arrested is not the point. That an MNA was able to escape from police custody is a serious issue. The real question is: how can a lawmaker violate the law and get away with it?

In Pakistan, the powerful not only look out for themselves but also their families, friends and followers. In many instances, the police have had to let go of known criminals after pressure from powerful quarters. The essence of the problem is that there is no concept of respect for the law in our society. Neither the lawmakers nor the law-givers respect the law. Most people get away with murder, both metaphorically and literally, because of our weak justice system and pressure tactics. It is for this reason that most people have lost their trust in the justice system. The need of the hour is to undo cronyism, nepotism and bribery culture from our law enforcement agencies.

A civilised society cannot exist unless and until it subscribes to a universally acceptable system of rules and regulations for conducting state affairs. Pakistan cannot progress if we keep disrespecting the law. An example must be made of Anjum Aqeel Khan. The PML-N should also take strict action against Mr Khan as he has violated the law in the worst possible way. *