Penology in Pakistan
Criminology and Criminal Justice System ...
Penology in Pakistan is currently characterized by significant challenges, including severe overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of effective rehabilitation programs. Here's an overview of the current state of penology in Pakistan:
🏛️ Prison Overcrowding and Capacity Issues
Pakistan's prison system is operating at approximately 152% of its authorized capacity, with 102,026 inmates housed in facilities designed for 65,811. Some prisons, such as Karachi's Central Jail, are exceeding their capacity by over 300%, housing 8,518 inmates in a facility designed for 2,400 . This overcrowding is exacerbated by systemic inefficiencies, including prolonged judicial delays and an ineffective bail system, leading to 73.41% of prisoners being under trial .(The News International, Dawn, The Express Tribune)
⚖️ Legal Reforms and Alternative Sentencing
The colonial-era Prisons Act of 1894 has been a significant barrier to reform, perpetuating a punitive justice system. However, recent initiatives, such as the Sindh Prison Rules of 2019, have begun to shift the focus towards rehabilitation and reintegration. These reforms prioritize vocational training, psychological support, and educational initiatives to prepare inmates for a meaningful return to society .(The News International)
👩⚖️ Special Considerations for Women and Juveniles
Women and juvenile inmates face unique challenges within Pakistan's prison system. Female prisoners are particularly vulnerable to mistreatment and abuse, including sexual assault and inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products . Juvenile offenders are often housed alongside adults, exposing them to exploitation and abuse .(Dawn, Al Jazeera, The News International)
🏥 Healthcare and Sanitation Challenges
Inmates in Pakistan's prisons often lack access to basic healthcare services. The number of designated medical officers for all prisons in the country was 193, but as of 2020, 105 of these posts were vacant . Additionally, poor hygiene conditions contribute to the spread of diseases such as tuberculosis, which spreads 29% faster in jails compared to the general population .(Al Jazeera)
📌 Conclusion
Pakistan's penological system is in urgent need of comprehensive reforms to address overcrowding, improve conditions for inmates, and shift towards a rehabilitative approach. While some provincial initiatives have begun to make strides, significant challenges remain in ensuring equitable treatment and access to justice for all individuals within the prison system.
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