Srinagar, Feb 4 (PTI) – Waheed Para, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) MLA from Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir, has called for radical reforms in India’s criminal justice system. Para, who is currently undergoing trial in a terror-funding case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), expressed his frustration with the slow pace of prosecution, which he said traps both the accused and their families in prolonged uncertainty.
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Para highlighted the ordeal of being stuck in the legal process, emphasizing that “once an undertrial, always an undertrial.” He criticized the system for its sluggish pace, noting that within a span of 30 days, he had faced five hearings across three different courts, underscoring that the UAPA process itself becomes a form of punishment.
"Even courts have little authority to grant relief," Para wrote. "With two UAPA cases, two other cases, and three quashment petitions pending in higher courts, the cycle is endless." Para’s comments reflect his frustration not only with the legal delays but also with the broader impact on the lives of those caught in the system. He added, "Slow prosecution doesn’t just hold the accused; it punishes entire families, trapping them in years of uncertainty. This isn’t just about legal battles; it’s about lives put on indefinite hold. Justice cannot mean endless confinement."
Para also pointed out the challenges faced by ordinary citizens in the justice system, stating, "And if this is happening after winning an MLA election, imagine the fate of those with no voice, no agency of their own, and no way to fight back." His remarks underscored his belief that the country’s criminal justice system needs sweeping changes to ensure fairness and efficiency for all citizens.
This post comes amid ongoing public and legal scrutiny of the UAPA, which has been criticized for its stringent provisions and the long periods individuals can be held without charge.
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Para highlighted the ordeal of being stuck in the legal process, emphasizing that “once an undertrial, always an undertrial.” He criticized the system for its sluggish pace, noting that within a span of 30 days, he had faced five hearings across three different courts, underscoring that the UAPA process itself becomes a form of punishment.
"Even courts have little authority to grant relief," Para wrote. "With two UAPA cases, two other cases, and three quashment petitions pending in higher courts, the cycle is endless." Para’s comments reflect his frustration not only with the legal delays but also with the broader impact on the lives of those caught in the system. He added, "Slow prosecution doesn’t just hold the accused; it punishes entire families, trapping them in years of uncertainty. This isn’t just about legal battles; it’s about lives put on indefinite hold. Justice cannot mean endless confinement."
Para also pointed out the challenges faced by ordinary citizens in the justice system, stating, "And if this is happening after winning an MLA election, imagine the fate of those with no voice, no agency of their own, and no way to fight back." His remarks underscored his belief that the country’s criminal justice system needs sweeping changes to ensure fairness and efficiency for all citizens.
This post comes amid ongoing public and legal scrutiny of the UAPA, which has been criticized for its stringent provisions and the long periods individuals can be held without charge.
Last updated by a enewsx: