In the context of “War on Terror”, counterterrorism can be characterised as a process in which certain techniques are used in response to the terrorism. There is need of tightening the nose of terrorists by fair trials and proper executions in the courts. It is not possible without proper legislation of laws and their implementation in the courts.
The terrorists are held but not put to trial accordingly due to lapses in anti-terrorism law. Sometimes, the mechanism of backup support is not given for dealing with the matter or in some cases the witnesses and judges are being threatened by the terrorists.
For instance, Dr Usman is said to be involved in different terrorist activities against Pakistan and was arrested red handed during the GHQ attack. Along with the GHQ and Islamabad Marriot suicide attack, he was also involved in the ambush against Sri Lankan cricket team and in the assassination of Lt Gen Mustaq Ahmad Baig. But he was freed on bailed as witnesses were not enough for his trial.
During Musharraf’s regime, laws dealing with the matters of terrorism were introduced and practiced but they expired in 2009. There is a need of proper legislation and laws.
SYED ALI RAZA SHAH
Islamabad
