Are Juveniles Being Unfairly Tried in Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Court?
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Synopsis
On July 30, the Human Rights Council of Pakistan (HRCP) voiced urgent concerns over the trials of underage children in the Anti-Terrorism Court. This alarming situation raises significant questions about justice and human rights in Pakistan.
Key Takeaways
- HRCP demands immediate cessation of juvenile trials in ATC.
- Concerns raised over legal proceedings violating children's rights.
- Call for transparency regarding legal justifications.
- Emphasis on the necessity of protecting minors under the Juvenile Justice System Act.
- Highlighting the moral obligation of Pakistani authorities to ensure justice for children.
Islamabad, July 30 (NationPress) The Human Rights Council of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised significant apprehensions regarding the ongoing trials of minors subjected to prosecution under terrorism laws in the nation’s Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) for the past year. The rights organization, while presenting a list of affected children, urged for an immediate cessation of juvenile trials in the ATC and a transfer of the cases to the Juvenile Court.
"It is profoundly alarming and perplexing that, despite clear evidence confirming their status as minors, these children are being tried under anti-terrorism legislation. Such judicial actions not only breach the Juvenile Justice System Act, 2018 of Pakistan but also infringe upon the basic human rights and constitutional protections granted to children," stated the HRCP.
The human rights organization further questioned the “transparency” surrounding the cases.
"On what legal grounds has this trial persisted for more than a year? Has the presiding judge overlooked the evidence indicating the defendants' minority and their legal rights? These pivotal issues necessitate immediate scrutiny from the higher judiciary and the Ministry of Law," the statement added.
The HRCP vehemently demanded that "the current trial be halted to avert further legal and moral injustices," calling for the cases to be transferred from the ATC to the appropriate Juvenile Court.
Moreover, it sought clarification on the legal basis for applying anti-terrorism laws to juvenile defendants, alongside ensuring full legal protection, judicial safeguards, and psychological support for the children as stipulated under the Juvenile Justice System Act, 2018 of Pakistan.
The human rights organization underscored that justice for children is not merely a “legal obligation but also a moral imperative” for the Pakistani authorities.
"A nation that neglects to deliver justice and safeguard its children is intentionally plunging its future into darkness. Cease treating children like terrorists—immediately," asserted the HRCP.
Point of View
The ongoing trials of minors in Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Court are a grave concern that highlights significant flaws in our justice system. Upholding the rights of children should be a priority, and it is imperative that the authorities address these issues with the urgency they deserve.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HRCP's stance on juvenile trials?
The HRCP has expressed deep concern over the prosecution of minors in the Anti-Terrorism Court and is demanding an immediate halt to these trials.
What laws are being violated?
The trials violate the Juvenile Justice System Act, 2018, which is designed to protect the rights of children.
What does the HRCP want to happen next?
The HRCP calls for the transfer of these cases to the Juvenile Court and for the application of anti-terrorism laws to be explained.
