LHC Takes a Stand Against Detaining Underage Drivers in Police Lockup
In a recent development, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has moved against the practice of keeping underage drivers in police lockup. The decision comes after growing concerns regarding the treatment and rehabilitation of underage offenders in the criminal justice system.
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The LHC’s move is in response to a case that brought attention to the issue of underage drivers being detained in police lockup alongside adult offenders. The court expressed its concern over the potential harm and adverse impact this practice could have on the psychological well-being and future prospects of these young individuals.
Underage driving has become a serious problem in Pakistan, with numerous cases of accidents and fatalities involving young drivers. The LHC acknowledges the need to address this issue and hold underage drivers accountable for their actions. However, the court believes that incarceration in a police lockup is not the appropriate response for these offenders.
Justice Mohammad Qasim Khan, who headed the bench, highlighted the importance of rehabilitating underage drivers rather than subjecting them to the harsh environment of a police lockup. The court emphasized the need for alternative measures such as counseling, education, and community service to address the root causes of underage driving and prevent recidivism.
The decision has been widely praised by child rights activists and legal experts who argue that the detention of underage drivers in police lockup only exacerbates the problem. They argue that such detention facilities are not equipped to handle the unique needs of young offenders and may expose them to further harm and criminal influence.
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Moreover, the LHC’s decision aligns with international standards and best practices for dealing with juvenile offenders. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Pakistan is a signatory to, emphasizes the importance of treating children in conflict with the law with dignity and respect, focusing on their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
To ensure the effective implementation of this decision, the LHC has directed the relevant authorities, including the police and social welfare departments, to develop comprehensive rehabilitation programs for underage drivers. These programs should aim to address the underlying issues that lead to underage driving, provide education and vocational training opportunities, and support the reintegration of these young individuals into society.
The LHC’s move against keeping underage drivers in police lockup is a significant step towards reforming the criminal justice system’s approach to juvenile offenders. It recognizes that punitive measures alone are not sufficient in addressing the complex issues surrounding underage driving. Instead, it calls for a more holistic and rehabilitative approach that prioritizes the well-being and future prospects of these young individuals.
It is hoped that this decision will pave the way for a broader conversation on juvenile justice reform in Pakistan. By focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration, the criminal justice system can contribute to breaking the cycle of offending and providing young offenders with the opportunity to become law-abiding and productive members of society..
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