Justice Project Pakistan released three reports on police torture in Jails. On the release of the reports consultations were held to provide a platform for human rights organizations to discuss the pertinent issues of human rights violations in Pakistan particularly focusing on juveniles and women.
Masarrat Misbah and Ayesha Taslim participated as DSF representatives. Legal Director of Justice Project presented brief introduction of the report and its findings. This was followed by a narrative of a juvenile victim of police abuse. A moderated discussion was held to identify the deep rooted, set issues underlying the abusive attitude of the police. Bad governance at all levels was attributed as the main reason.
Masarrat Misbah emphasized that although laws are in place but because of lack of implementation, which of coarse is due to bad governance, the justice system is unable to deliver. She mentioned that through an amendment in the criminal law (the acid bill 2011) the culprits are suppose to get life imprisonment and a fine of Rs. one million. Taking this discussion forward Ayesha Taslim reiterated that the Government of Pakistan is a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and has further ratified all supporting declarations including the rights of children, the rights of women , reproductive health rights etc.
The representatives of other NGOs narrated the case studies and success stories of helping the oppressed women and children in rehabilitation in spite of all hurdles. Masarrat Misbah added that all civil society organizations should keep on undertaking the good work to benefit the needy and alongside pressure groups may be formed to seek good governance at all levels.
