A Focus Group Discussion, “Role of Prosecution and Police in Criminal Justice System”, was held on Tuesday, May 20, 2014 at Hotel One, Faisalabad. The discussion was a part of an advocacy campaign for the Support to Punjab Prosecution Service (SPPS) project by CRSS. Deputy District Public Prosecutor Faisalabad Shahzad Ahmad, Ashfaq Javed Bhutta SP (Legal), Resident Editor Daily Jang ZafarDogar, Director Agency for Sustainable Development Pakistan (ASDP) Amina Zamanand Executive Director AWAM Nazia Sardar were the distinguished participants of the discussion. Rana Qaisar Director Programme Center for Research and Security Studies(CRSS) hosted the event.

Shahzad Ahmad opened the discussion by introducing the existence of Prosecution Service of which many people in Pakistan are not aware of. He explained the role of prosecutor in existing system and his non-interference in police investigations. Mr Shahzad believed if due importance is given to the prosecution service, 90 per cent of the cases could be resolved before reaching courts.

Ashfaq Javed Bhutta briefed on registration of FIR whichis a right of the complainant or affected party. He highlighted the issue of improper scrutinizing of FIRs byprosecutors.
Nazia Sardar said lack of coordination and gaps in prosecution and police department is creating problems for public. She stressed on the need of training of police on modern lines to meet the diverse forms of violence.

Amina Zaman highlighted the problems faced by women in registration of FIRs. She suggested merit based recruitment in Police and Prosecution Department and bringing in honest and dedicated people to ensure a speedy Prosecution service and changing the existing Thana Culture.
Zafar Dogarhighlighted political influence and lack of resources for police as major challenges for the justice system.

All participants agreed that an efficient Criminal Justice System cannot exist without an effective and honest prosecution and police department.