ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved proposed amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) to ensure cases registered under the law are decided within a year.

In another significant decision, the cabinet incorporated a column regarding the finality of prophethood in Nikkahnama (marriage certificate). The decision will be implemented within the capital territory.

The cabinet meeting, which was presided over by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, approved the CrPC amendment bill, aimed at easing the procedure of registration of FIRs. The bill will be sent to parliament for approval. The police will be empowered under the bill to use modern technology and gadgets for investigation. It will also allow the recording of audio and video statements of witnesses.

In order to strengthen the role of prosecutor, a few clauses have been incorporated into the bill as the prosecutor can identify any deficiency in the reports.

Under the proposed amendments, women, children aged less than 12 years, senior citizens and those having any disability could record their statements at any suitable place.

Under the bill, the trial court will decide the case in one year and in case of any delay, the trial court would be answerable to the relevant high court. Similarly, the appellate will have to decide the appeals in six months to one years.

Besides, in a detailed briefing by the IT ministry, the meeting was apprised that the e-office system has been established 100 per cent in 18 divisions of the government. After the completion of e-office system, the government could save Rs230m.

Also, the cabinet approved the National Registration and Biometric Policy Framework, 2024, setting up of Intellectual Property Tribunal, Quetta, and proposed amendments to the explosive rules for issuance of licences for use of heavy explosives.

Published in Dawn, December 18th, 2024