Pakistan’s struggle with custodial torture highlights significant institutional deficiencies, particularly the lack of modern investigative training for police forces. Weak oversight and a culture of impunity in the country often lead to abusive practices by law enforcement, as officers act without fear of consequences.
The recent death of a suspect in police custody, now under investigation by the Sindh High Court, underscores the gap between constitutional principles and actual policing in Pakistan. Despite constitutional provisions against torture for extracting evidence, custodial violence remains a common violation, sometimes with fatal outcomes.
The court’s refusal to grant bail to the involved police officers and its directive to the Inspector General of Sindh Police to start disciplinary actions mark a crucial move towards accountability. Justice Omar Sial’s remarks highlight the failure to set limits on the use of force, questioning the nation’s claim to civilization when such basic standards are not enforced.
The report emphasizes the systemic nature of the issue, indicating that torture is often seen as a shortcut in criminal investigations. However, reliance on coercion not only violates the law but also hinders justice by leading to false confessions and wrongful convictions. The call for comprehensive reforms, including enhanced training and accountability measures, is crucial to address the root causes of custodial violence.
