The Hon’ble Chief Justice Lahore High Court/ Chairperson BoM, Punjab Judicial Academy, Lahore, has been pleased to approve 04-days Online Distance Learning Training Sessions on Topics Relating to GBV for the Officers of the Punjab Police to be conducted from 04th March to 07th March, 2024.
On 04th March, 2024, the webinar session inaugurated with the recitation of Holy Quran. In the opening remarks, Mr. Ashtar Abbas, Acting Director General PJA, shared his views that this program delves into crucial topics like trial procedures, evidence collection, and legal frameworks surrounding GBV. Through this intensive training, we aim to empower the Police officers on the frontline with the knowledge and skills necessary for sensitive investigation, proper evidence handling, and successful prosecution of GBV cases. This training signifies PJA’s commitment to strengthening the criminal justice system's response to GBV. The dedication and expertise of the Police Officers, combined with the knowledge gained through this webinar training, will be instrumental in ensuring justice for victims and deterring future acts of violence.
Mr. Muhammad Iram Ayaz, Director Training (Distance Learning) PJA, in his inaugural address gave an overview of the program and emphasized that the objectives of the training sessions are to recognize the unique challenges faced by law enforcement in tackling GBV. This program is designed to address those challenges by providing you with in-depth knowledge of relevant laws, protocols, and best practices in handling GBV cases.
On Monday, 04th March, 2024, four webinar sessions were conducted. First session was conducted from 09:15 – 10:30 a.m. by Mr. Habibullah Amir, D&SJ (R) on the topic “Trial of GBV Cases, Recording of Evidence, and Reasons for Conviction”. In this session, learned Resource Person delves into the legal intricacies of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases and discussed the trial process, emphasizing the accurate recording of evidence. He further sheds light on the factors that contribute to successful convictions in GBV-related legal proceedings.
In the second session from 10:30 – 11:45 a.m., Dr. Saima A. Khawaja, Legal Consultant, conducted webinar session on the topic “An Overview of GBV Cases”. The Resource Person provided a broader perspective on GBV cases and covered the prevalence of GBV, challenges faced by survivors, and relevant legal frameworks.
In the third session from 12:15 – 01:30 p.m., Hon’ble Mr. Justice (R) Sardar Ahmad Naeem, was pleased to spare time for webinar session on the topic “Domestic Violence and Sexual Harassment”. His lordship shared insights into legal definitions, protective measures, and the judiciary's role in addressing critical issues like domestic violence and sexual harassment.
In the fourth session from 02:15 – 03:30 p.m., Hon’ble
Mr. Justice (R) Sardar Ahmad Naeem conducted webinar session on the topic “Collection of Evidence in Rape Cases from Crime Scene”. Hon’ble lordship discussed techniques for preserving and analyzing evidence, ensuring proper chain of custody, and navigating the complexities of crime scenes.
The day ended with a questions and answers session.
On Tuesday, 05th March, 2024, the second day of the training session, four webinar sessions were conducted.
First session was conducted by Ms. Sana Hameed, FS Toxicology, Punjab Forensic Science Agency, Lahore, from
09:00 – 10:15 a.m. on the topic “Forensic Science in Aid of GBV Cases”. In this session, learned Resource Person highlighted how forensic science plays a crucial role in investigating and prosecuting gender-based violence (GBV) cases. She discussed the process that involves collecting, analyzing, and preserving evidence from crime scenes, victims, and suspects, using techniques such as DNA analysis, fingerprint identification, and ballistics help link perpetrators to crimes.
In the second session from 10:15 – 11:30 a.m., Mr. Fahad Malik, Legal Consultant, conducted webinar session on the topic “Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance, 1984 (Stripping of Women's Clothes, 354-A) of Criminal Law (Third Amendment), Offences Against Women.”. The Resource Person provided a broader perspective on Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance, 1984 and highlighted different aspects of the amendments that especially focuses gender based violence cases to criminalize such acts and ensures legal consequences for violators.
In the third session from 12:00 – 01:15 p.m., Dr. Arif Rasheed Malik, Prof. of Forensic Medicine of Toxicology, SIMS, Surgeon Medico Legal Punjab, Lahore, conducted webinar session on the topic “Principles of Medico Legal in GBV Cases and its Requirements in view of Anti-Rape Act, Crises Cell & Medico Legal Rules, 2022”. The learned Resource Person shared that Medico-legal principles guide the examination and documentation of GBV cases. These include ensuring victim privacy, conducting thorough medical examinations, preserving evidence, and adhering to legal protocols. The Anti-Rape Act, Crises Cell, and Medico Legal Rules emphasize proper medico-legal procedures to enhance justice for survivors.
In the fourth session from 02:00 – 03:15 p.m., Mr. Suhaib Ahmad Rumi, D&SJ (R) conducted webinar session on the topic “Zainab Alert Recovery and Response Act, 2020 and its Implication in Trial of GBV Cases”. The learned resource person gave an overview of the Zainab Alert Recovery and response Act, 2020 and its use in GBV trial cases. He discussed that the Act aims to raise alerts, respond to missing children cases, and coordinate efforts. It strengthens legal mechanisms, ensuring timely alerts, efficient responses, and effective recovery of missing and abducted children. Mr. Sohaib Ahmad Rumi discussed that the Act’s implication in GBV trials include improved coordination, evidence collection, and victim support.
On Wednesday, 06th March, 2024, the third day of the webinar training session, four sessions were conducted.
First session was conducted by Mr. Suhaib Ahmad Rumi, D&SJ (R), from 09:00 – 10:15 a.m. on the topic “The Punjab Witness Protection Act, 2018 and its Implication During Trial - Use of Modern Devices/Video Link in GBV related Cases for Recording of Victim's Statement”. During the session, Mr. Rumi explored various aspects of the Act, shedding light on its implications during trial proceedings. Notably, he emphasized the use of modern devices and video links for recording victim statements, especially in cases related to gender-based violence (GBV). Participants gained insights into the functions of the Witness Protection Board, special measures to protect witnesses, and the importance of accurate reporting in criminal cases.
In the second session from 10:15 – 11:30 a.m., Mr. Habibullah Amir, D&SJ (R), conducted webinar session on the topic “An Overview of Protections Against Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2010”. The learned Resource Person provided a comprehensive overview of the Act, emphasizing its key provisions and implications. The Participants were given insights into the definition of sexual harassment, the role of the Competent Authority, and the Code of Conduct.
In the third session from 12:00 – 01:15 p.m., Hon’ble Mr. Justice Mahmood Maqbool Bajwa, conducted webinar session on the topic “The Anti Rape (Investigation & Trial) Act, 2021 – Criminal Laws Amendment Act, 2021”. His lordship discussed significance of the Act and highlighted that the Act aims to provide expeditious redressal of rape and sexual abuse crimes concerning women and children. His lordship further enlighten the participants that the Act revisits the definition of rape and introduces amendments to deter rapists in contemporary circumstances. Participants gained insights into the Act’s provisions, speedy trial procedures, and evidence-related matters.
In the fourth session from 02:00 – 03:15 p.m., Ms. Mahnoor Kazmi, Legal Consultant, conducted webinar session on the topic “An Overview of the Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence Act, 2016 and Protection of Women (Criminal Laws Amendment) Act, 2006”. During the session, Ms. Kazmi provided a comprehensive overview of both Acts, emphasizing their key provisions and implications. Participants gained insights into legal mechanisms for protecting women from domestic, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse. The discussion covered topics such as restraining orders, residence rights, monetary relief, and the establishment of District Women Protection Committees.
On Thursday, 07th March, 2024, the training program concluded with four webinar sessions.
First session was conducted by Miss Madiha Shad, FS DNA, Punjab Forensic Science Agency, Lahore, from 09:00 – 10:15 a.m. on the topic “Collection of Evidence in GBV Cases & Common Errors in Investigation & Checkup Points for I.Os.” During this session, the learned Resource Person emphasized the significance of robust evidence collection in GBV cases. She highlighted the role of investigating officers in ensuring thorough and accurate documentation of evidence, including physical, testimonial, and forensic aspects. Participants gained insights into common pitfalls and errors encountered during investigations, such as mishandling of evidence, inadequate victim interviews, and procedural oversights.
In the second session from 10:15 – 11:30 a.m., Mr. Abid Hussain Qureshi, D&SJ(R), conducted webinar session on the topic “Procedure of Scrutiny of Challan of GBV Cases by Prosecutors and Check Points in View of Punjab Criminal Prosecution Act, 2006”. The learned Resource Person emphasized and highlighted the Police Officers’ meticulousness in evidence collection, witness statements, and documentation significantly impacts the strength of the challan. By adhering to legal protocols and paying attention to crucial details, police officers contribute to building a robust case. This session emphasized the collaborative efforts required between prosecutors and law enforcement personnel to uphold justice and protect survivors of GBV.
In the third session from 11:45 – 01:00 p.m., Mr. Abid Hussain Qureshi, D&SJ(R), conducted webinar session on the topic “The Prevention and control of Human Trafficking in Persons Act, 2018”. The learned Resource Person highlighted that the Act aims to prevent and combat trafficking in persons, especially women and children. It provides effective measures to safeguard victims, promote national and international cooperation, and facilitate the prosecution of traffickers. He also discussed key provisions include criminalizing trafficking, establishing penalties for offenders, and ensuring the protection of victims. The session empowered police officers to understand their role in combating human trafficking, protect vulnerable individuals, and contribute to a safer society.
In the fourth session from 01:00 – 02:15 p.m., Mian Ghulam Hussain, D&SJ (R), conducted webinar session on the topic “Criminal Law Amendment (Offences in the Name and Pretext of Honour) Act, 2016 and Criminal Law (Second Amendment) Act, 2011 (Offences of Acid Throwing)”. The learned Resource Person discussed that this legislation introduced significant amendments to the Pakistan Penal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure. It aimed to deter and prevent offences committed in the name or pretext of honour, particularly honour killings that claim the lives of hundreds of victims annually. The legislation addressed loopholes in existing laws, ensuring that such crimes are not repeatedly committed. Notably, the Act introduced the concept of fasad-fil-arz (spreading mischief on Earth) and discretionary judicial punishment (ta‘zīr) for offenders guilty of honour-related offences.
At the end of the session, detailed Questions & Answers session took place wherein the participant Judges asked questions from the learned resource person to clear the concept of the subject. Learned resource person appreciated the focus and active engagement of the participants.
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