Independent Prosecution and Provision of Justice:
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Date
2016
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
UMT.lahore
Abstract
This study investigates the role of Punjab Criminal Prosecution Service (PCPS),
which deals with criminal cases in the court on behalf of the state, on the provision of
justice in the Punjab province. The study explores the efficacy of Punjab Criminal
Prosecution Act, 2006 through document analysis and interviews of 25 individuals
representing all relevant stakeholders in PCPS namely judges, prosecutors, investigation
officers, private lawyers and accused persons. The study finds that the structure of PCPS
is much better as compared to former system of Attorney General that deals both
criminals as well as civil matters in the courts on the behalf of state. After the
establishment of PCPS, the power structure is divided between the police and the
prosecutors to resolve the criminal cases. But despite better service the process of PCPS
is not without demerits. This system is not entirely independent. It is evident in some
cases that there is political interference and undue pressure which hinders provision of
justice. The study strongly recommends transfer of power to prosecutors of the Punjab as
per PCPS Act, 2006 for better delivery of justice in the province.