The crime of rape is undoubtedly barbaric and one which no civilised society should ever tolerate; however, barbaric crimes do not need to be visited with barbaric penalties such as public hangings. The courts must always act in accordance with the principles of the law and must confine themselves to the parameters laid down by the constitution.
It is worth mentioning that the Supreme Court of Pakistan has already declared public hanging as unlawful. Furthermore, if the execution of a prisoner is conducted publicly, then there are chances of inciting public aggression.
Barrister Arsalan Raja
Karachi
*****
This letter refers to the news report ‘Amnesty condemns public hangings’ (Feb 8, 2020). As per the report, Omar Warraich of Amnesty International is against public hanging and executions. Amongst the many arguments he gives to back his stance, I quote the following: “If human life holds the highest value, then taking it away is the lowest act.”
I would like to ask if the people involved in such heinous and inhumane crimes as the murder of children are still fit to be called ‘human beings.’
Dr K Humayun
Islamabad
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