ISLAMABAD, Dec 27: President Gen Pervez Musharraf has emphasized the need for having a reformed and modern legal system and efficient administration of justice for good governance, and laying sound foundation for sustained economic growth, commercial activities and attracting foreign investment.

He was talking to Chief Justice Sheikh Riaz Ahmed, chairman of the Law and Justice Commission and national judicial policy making committee, who presented him with 11 reports approved by the commission for implementation by the government. Secretary of the commission, Dr Faqir Hussain, was also present.

The reports pertain to amendments to the penal codes for providing punishment for dishonestly issuing cheques which are dishonoured, molestation and trafficking in children for use as camel jockeys or employment in hazardous occupations; enhancing the fines for various offences and increasing the powers of magistrates in imposing them. Reports regarding the right to appeal against acquittal to complainant under the Anti-Terrorism Act and enhancement of pecuniary jurisdiction of civil and district courts were also submitted.

The chief justice said other reports approved by the commission would also be submitted to the government.—APP