On Tuesday, Pakistan’s federal cabinet approved the Criminal Procedure (Code of Criminal Procedure) Amendment Bill 2024, following recommendations from the Ministry of Law and Justice. The bill aims to simplify the process of filing FIRs and introduces the use of modern technology and forensic techniques in investigations. It also allows for the audio-video recording of witness statements.
The bill strengthens the prosecutor’s role during investigations, enabling them to identify issues with police reports. It also allows vulnerable individuals—such as women, children under 12, the elderly, and those with disabilities—to record their statements at a convenient location. Additionally, the amendments call for trials to be concluded within a year, with any delays being addressed by the relevant High Court. Appeals will be decided within six months to one year.
The cabinet also made several other key decisions, including approving the National Registration and Biometrics Policy Framework 2024, establishing an Intellectual Property Tribunal in Quetta, and signing the United Nations Convention on International Settlement Agreements resulting from arbitration. Other approvals included amendments to explosive materials licenses, the transfer of certain districts to a new electric power company, and the inclusion of an oath related to the Finality of Prophethood in marriage certificates.
In a move towards a paperless economy, the cabinet was updated on the successful implementation of the e-office system across 18 federal government divisions, with potential savings of up to Rs 230 million in stationery and fuel costs. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the efforts behind the e-office rollout.
Additionally, a new 13-member committee was formed under Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal to monitor sugar exports and evaluate stock positions, ensuring timely decisions on exports and addressing discrepancies in sugar-related data.
