Narcotics Offences and Juvenile Justice: A Critical Look
The legal framework concerning narcotics offences in Pakistan presents a complex challenge, particularly for juvenile cases. Children ensnared in these crimes are often from impoverished backgrounds and are exploited by adults within the drug trade. Often, the existing systems fail to prioritize child rights and instead, impose punitive measures.
The Reality of Juvenile Justice
The Sindh High Court recently granted post-arrest bail to a 14-year-old girl accused of carrying narcotics. The additional prosecutor general suggested that her parents were likely using her in a drug mule operation. SindhNews.com underscores the gravity of the situation, where children find themselves on the wrong side of the law.
The System’s Shortcomings
According to Justice Project Pakistan’s (JPP) 2025 Narcotics Offences Factsheet, 165 children are imprisoned for related offenses across the nation. Notably, there is a distinct lack of comprehensive, age-specific data from Sindh and Balochistan. This absence of data indicates a broader issue within the system.
Legal Framework and Reality Check
The Juvenile Justice System Act (JJSA) of 2018 defines a child as someone under 18 and aims to establish safe structures. However, observation homes and rehabilitation centers are either nonexistent or lack functional effectiveness. Sindh’s Child Protection Authority Act of 2011 offers further protection, yet it’s often not implemented.
Conclusion:
The state should refocus its efforts on rehabilitating children involved in narcotics offences, moving away from imprisonment and toward support, prevention, and rehabilitation – in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.