President Zardari Announces Special Remission of Jail Terms on Eid-ul-Fitr

Strategic Insights -

In a significant move ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, President Asif Ali Zardari has approved a special remission of jail terms for prisoners convicted of various crimes. The special remission is implemented under article 45 of the Constitution, as advised by the Prime Minister. The remission will benefit a large number of prisoners, including those convicted of life imprisonment, terrorism, and other serious offenses.

Key Takeaways:

  • A special remission of 90 days has been announced for prisoners convicted of life imprisonment, excluding those convicted of murder, espionage, anti-state activities, and terrorist activities.
  • A special remission of 45 days has been allowed for all other convicts, excluding those convicted of murder, espionage, subversion, anti-state activities, and terrorist acts.
  • Total remission has been granted to prisoners who are 65 years of age or above, have undergone 1/3rd of their sentence, and are not involved in culpable homicide or terrorist activities.
  • Female prisoners aged 60 or above, who have undergone at least 1/3 of their sentence and are not involved in terrorist acts or culpable homicide, have also been granted total remission.
  • Juvenile convicts (under 18 years of age) who have served 1/3rd of their sentence, excluding those involved in culpable homicide, terrorist acts, and anti-state activities, have been given total remission of their remaining sentence.
  • Female prisoners who have accompanied children and are serving a sentence for crimes other than culpable homicide and terrorist acts have been granted a special remission of one year.

Statistics:

  • 90 days of special remission for prisoners convicted of life imprisonment, excluding certain crimes.
  • 45 days of special remission for all other convicts, excluding certain crimes.
  • 100% tota remission for prisoners aged 65 or above, with 1/3rd of their sentence served.
  • 100% total remission for female prisoners aged 60 or above, with 1/3rd of their sentence served, and excluding terrorist acts and culpable homicide.
  • 100% total remission for juvenile convicts (under 18 years of age) who have served 1/3rd of their sentence, excluding certain crimes.
  • 1-year special remission for female prisoners who have accompanied children and are serving a sentence for crimes other than culpable homicide and terrorist acts.

Sources:

  • [President's office press release, April 10, 2023]