Editorial
Extrajudicial killings have become one of the most alarming trends in Pakistan’s governance and politics. This practice, which blatantly violates the Constitution and fundamental human rights, corrodes democratic institutions and erodes public trust in the justice system. It is not merely the unlawful death of an individual; it is the death of the rule of law itself.
In recent weeks, reports from Punjab of custodial deaths and killings in police encounters have sparked outrage. Human rights groups and political parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), raised strong concerns about the abuse of authority and the fragility of the criminal justice system. Yet, disturbing reports now emerge from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, especially Peshawar, where the same methods are allegedly being employed. This shows that the phenomenon is no longer confined to one province; it is fast becoming an entrenched state behaviour.
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The contradiction is striking. Political parties in opposition decry human rights violations and demand reforms. But once in power, many adopt the same unconstitutional tactics they once condemned. Such duplicity not only undermines democratic values but also shatters citizens’ faith in judicial institutions. True democracies strengthen their criminal justice systems through reforms in policing, judiciary, forensic science, and oversight mechanisms. In Pakistan, however, the state resorts to “instant justice” by allowing law enforcement to act as judge, jury, and executioner.
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Republic Policy strongly recommends immediate reforms. Extrajudicial killings must be categorically criminalised, with strict accountability for officers involved. Law enforcement must undergo professional training and remain under robust civilian oversight. Political parties must honour their human rights commitments in power, not just in opposition. Equally, federal and provincial governments must collaborate on comprehensive reforms to modernise the justice system. Media, civil society, and think tanks should continue to scrutinise this trend and keep the debate alive.
For Pakistan to evolve into a truly democratic and dignified state, rule of law, transparent accountability, and the sanctity of human rights must be prioritised over expediency. Anything less is an abdication of constitutional duty.
