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Fair trial
One of the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973, is the right to a fair trial. Article 10-A provides an opportunity for the accused or any party involved in litigation to receive a fair trial. The Criminal Justice System is based on the Latin maxim “Audi Alteram Partem,” which dictates that no one should be condemned unheard. It is the duty of the court to provide a full-fledged opportunity for hearing to all parties without discrimination.
In recent history, former judge Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui of the Islamabad High Court was sacked by the Supreme Judicial Council for revealing intelligence agencies’ interference in judicial affairs during a speech to the legal fraternity in the Rawalpindi Bar Association on July 18, 2018.
The Supreme Judicial Council initiated proceedings against Justice Siddiqui under Article 209 of the Constitution, resulting in his removal from office. However, Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui appealed the Council’s decision, and the Supreme Court recently declared his conviction as unfair. This landmark decision underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the principles of fair trial enshrined in the Constitution. As guardians of the rule of law, it is imperative that all individuals, regardless of their status or position, are afforded their constitutional right to a fair trial, thus upholding the principles of justice and equality before the law.
IRSHAD AHMED
Larkana
No compromise on safety
Why does India consistently adopt such a negative stance towards Pakistan during elections? Whenever elections approach in India, we witness a surge in negative propaganda against Pakistan. However, Pakistan has never reciprocated with such hostile rhetoric during general elections. As part of a larger strategy to combat terrorism emanating from abroad, The Guardian reported that the Indian Government had carried out over 20 targeted operations in Pakistan since 2020. Subsequently, India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, affirmed in an interview the New Delhi policy of conducting such operations in Pakistan.
According to Singh, India will take action across the border to neutralize any individual attempting to engage in terrorist activities in Pakistan. Such provocative statements and irresponsible behaviour seem to be driven solely by electoral gains.
In response, Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, has issued a stern warning to India, urging them to reconsider their actions. He cautioned India about the potential consequences of any such incursions. India’s persistent propagation of derogatory narratives and false propaganda against Pakistan is concerning. However, it’s imperative not to misinterpret our desire for peace. Pakistan’s history bears testimony to its strong resolve and capacity for self-defence.
AREEBA ALTAF
Larkana
Career pathways
The route to Academia and Professional Life in Pakistan embraces a tapestry of experiences thanks to its rich culture and diverse locale. The structural system begins with primary to higher education; challenges persist regarding infrastructure, resources and socio-economic disparities that drift the quality of education.
Furthermore, issues regarding outdated curricula, research funding and availability of professional degrees to metropolitans pose obstacles to professional development. Despite efforts to promote gender equality, the disparity remains a concern, with fewer opportunities open for women. Pakistan offers a dynamic approach to professional realm, driven by vast sectors of agriculture, manufacturing, textiles and services. With its growing population, ample opportunities for entrepreneurship and start-ups are applicable.
Pakistani Diaspora contributes significantly to its professional landscape, with skilled individuals making their mark globally in diverse fields such as information, automation, medicine, eco-translation and services. Remittances from overseas Pakistanis also play a crucial role in the country’s economy, leading to investment opportunities in education, infrastructure and commercialization.
The multitude of challenges persist though, such as unemployment, underemployment and skills mismatch plague the job market, necessitating concerted efforts from government and private stakeholders to address these concerns. To craft a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of a fast-changing economy, it is imperative to improve academic quality, elevate vocational training programs and encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.
In conclusion, navigation in academic and professional life in Pakistan is a journey denoted by challenges and opportunities. The drive for resilience and perseverance exists in the population despite the challenges. Pakistan may perhaps realize its max potential and create the conditions for an optimized future by merging efforts to reform education, encourage entrepreneurship and promote inclusivity.
DR AYESHA
Via email
Eid-ul-Fitr
The Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Fitr was celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm all over India. Mumbai is a melting pot of various religions, cultures and traditions and is known for its cosmopolitan nature, where all festivals are celebrated with a great feeling of brotherhood and communal harmony.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
