The Supreme Court has expressed concern over delays in registering FIRs in murder cases in Sindh. The court has directed senior officials to address the issue.
A three-member bench heard the case concerning delays in registering FIRs for murder cases. Justice Hashim Kakar headed the bench during the hearing.
The Supreme Court directed the Inspector General of Police Sindh and Prosecutor General to submit written recommendations. They must present their recommendations within one week.
Court Raises Concerns Over FIR Delays
Justice Hashim Kakar said delays of two or three days could affect murder cases. He noted that such delays could potentially contribute to the acquittal of accused persons.
Justice Kakar stressed that delays in serious criminal cases were unacceptable. He also called for clear procedures to ensure timely registration of FIRs.
According to the court, an SOP should be introduced for immediate FIR registration. The procedure should apply after authorities receive information about an incident.
Justice Salahuddin Panhwar also stressed the importance of registering FIRs without unnecessary delays. He said FIRs involving serious crimes should be registered immediately.
He also questioned the practice of seeking permission before registering FIRs. According to his observations, such practices can create delays in criminal investigations.
Court Seeks Clear Police Policy
Justice Panhwar raised concerns about cases involving influential suspects. He observed that police sometimes stopped daily diary entries when an accused was influential.
He further noted that police sometimes waited for permission from influential local figures before registering murder FIRs.
Justice Panhwar called for an end to such practices. He stressed that FIRs in serious criminal cases should be registered without delay.
The bench also proposed departmental action against officials responsible for unnecessary delays. This could include Station House Officers and Deputy Superintendents of Police.
The court has sought a clear policy from the IGP Sindh regarding FIR registration. The policy is expected to address delays and establish clear responsibilities for police officials.
IGP Sindh Assures Court of Reforms
During the hearing, the IGP Sindh informed the court about ongoing efforts. He said steps were being taken to eliminate delays in FIR registration.
Justice Panhwar told the IGP that police should have the necessary authority to register FIRs promptly. He emphasized that procedural obstacles should not prevent timely registration.
The Supreme Court subsequently directed the IGP Sindh and Prosecutor General to submit their recommendations. The officials have been given one week to provide their written proposals.
The recommendations are expected to address the registration process for murder and other serious crimes. They may also outline measures to prevent delays by police officials.
The Supreme Court adjourned the hearing until October 6. The matter will be taken up again on that date.
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The case highlights concerns about timely FIR registration in serious criminal matters in Sindh. The court’s directions seek clearer procedures and accountability for delays in the process.
