ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Law and Justice has unveiled significant reforms to the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) of 1898, aimed at enhancing the legal and investigative framework in Pakistan.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar presented the extensive amendments to the CrPC, which were unanimously approved by the federal cabinet. The proposed changes were recommended by a committee led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and reflect extensive consultations with bar councils, lawyers, prosecutors, and judges.
The key reforms include the introduction of an electronic system for filing First Information Reports (FIRs) and empowering officers with the authority to initiate preliminary inquiries for FIR registration. Additionally, the amendments stipulate that only female officers will be authorized to arrest women, ensuring a more respectful and regulated approach.
The reforms also call for the adoption of modern investigative tools, such as audio and video recordings, to improve the accuracy and reliability of evidence. Prosecutors will now have the power to point out deficiencies in police reports, promoting greater transparency in the investigative process.
Another significant change allows for the suspension of investigations when there is insufficient evidence, providing a clearer and more structured legal procedure. The Ministry of Law and Justice emphasized that these changes aim to improve transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies.
Once the amendments receive cabinet approval, they will be presented to Parliament for final legislation. Earlier, in October 2024, the government decided to remove amendments to Articles 63-A and 38 of the Constitution from the proposed constitutional amendment bill. Initially, these changes were aimed at allowing votes cast by lawmakers against their party leadership’s instructions to be counted, but this provision was excluded from the final draft presented in the Senate.
