Much has changed
A society devoid of justice cannot claim to be a functional one, let alone an ideal one, for justice is the foundation of every democratic norm. Where some might evade the law just because of their power, something’s got to give sooner or later. A justice system that is dynamic enough to deliver results regardless of social status of the perpetrators is what forms durable democracies.
Justice has been done. The court has awarded the death sentence to the soldier who shot Sarfraz Shah in Karachi while his associates and a civilian have been awarded life sentences. With the new found liberties that the courts have been enjoying since the lawyers’ movement, this judgement shows that our judiciary has the spine to stand up for proper dispensation of justice. They have come a long way from being a meek and weak judiciary to a fair and undeterred one. A lengthy process of appeals could still intricate the matters before justice is finally served, but one hopes the higher judiciary to be on no one’s side other than justice itself.
The way the higher command of the armed forces has handled the issue needs a pat on the shoulder. Powerful as their institution might be, now is the time to realise that the real power originates from gaining trust of the people and not from fear infused through a blatant use of force. Avoiding interference in judicial proceedings is a sign of maturity and understanding of this fine idea. COAS Gen Kayani seems to be passionate about changing the perception of the institution that has seen a steep decline in its esteem and popularity recently. Certain initiatives – induction of Baloch youth and inauguration of a coal mine project, to cite an instance – in Balochistan by the Army seem aimed at easing the concerns of the locals regarding the army’s large footprint in the province. A welcome initiative, no doubt but like the proverbial iceberg, much of where this transition is needed is still underwater.
