WHILE the common man finds it quite difficult to get timely justice, the misery actually starts at the police station where one has to go for having the first information report (FIR) registered so that the legal process may be set in motion. A pressing issue that plagues the country`s criminal justice system is the archaic investigation mechanism employed by lawenforcement agencies. The whole thing falls under the larger umbrella of what is generally called the `thana culture`.It is imperative to address the flaws in the outdated system that only lead to flawed prosecutions, wrongful punishments,and the erosion of public trust in the whole legal system. In Pakistan, the lack of accountability for outdated practices in law enforcement is a major concern The reliance on coercive tactics to obtain confessions is flawed, as such confessions are subsequently dismissed in the court for having been `obtained under duress`.

This puts the prosecution in a difficult position, not only compromising the legitimacy of convictions, but also perpetuating the cycle of injustice.

The rooteauses ofthisissue are varied; lack of modernisation, corruption, political influence, torture, fake encounters, FIR delays, wrong registrations and flawed evidence collection post-arrest.

To pave the way for a more just and effective criminal justice system, it is vital to prioritise proper enforcement of laws by the relevant agencies, particularly the police, who are the first responders at a crime scene.

The relevant authorities should establish a specialised department within the police force dedicated to modern investigation techniques.

By providing proper training and resources to this department, we can ensure that investigations are carried out effectively and swiftly, leading to just outcomes.

This will not only uphold the principles enshrined in the Constitution, but also help rebuild the trust between the public and the police. It is time to undertake meaningful reforms to address the existing flaws in our criminal justice system.

By emphasising the importance of proper investigation methods and holding law-enforcement agencies accountable, we can build a society where justice prevails.

Syed Rehman Chiniot