In a recent security briefing, startling discrepancies have surfaced regarding the distribution and efficiency of anti-terrorism courts across Pakistan.
The briefing highlighted that while terrorism remains rampant in regions such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, these areas are severely lacking in the number and effectiveness of anti-terrorism courts.
According to the latest data presented:
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Formation of anti-terrorism courts: Punjab hosts 23 courts, Sindh 32, Balochistan 9, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa only 13, despite being one of the most affected regions by terrorism.
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Pending cases: A staggering total of 605 cases are currently pending across the country. Breakdown by province: Punjab - 48, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa - 195, Balochistan - 208.
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Convictions: Out of 217 total convictions, Punjab recorded 152, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan reported significantly lower numbers of 14 and 10 respectively.
The briefing also underscored the grim reality of ongoing terrorist attacks in KP and Balochistan, resulting in casualties among security personnel and civilians alike. Despite these critical security challenges, the courts in these regions are operating with limited capacity and efficiency, raising serious concerns about their ability to deliver justice effectively.
Critics argue that expecting substantial progress under such conditions is unreasonable. The disparity in court resources and judicial outcomes between provinces has prompted calls for urgent reforms to enhance the capacity and performance of anti-terrorism courts, particularly in the most affected areas.
As Pakistan continues its struggle against terrorism, addressing these disparities and strengthening judicial institutions in vulnerable regions like KP and Balochistan is seen as crucial in achieving lasting peace and security nationwide. The need for a balanced and effective approach to counter-terrorism remains paramount in the ongoing national security discourse.
