Proposed amendments aim to restrict police arrest powers amid concerns over misuse of existing provisions.
LAHORE: A significant legal reform proposal is under consideration in the Punjab Assembly, where a draft amendment to the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898 has been prepared on the direction of the Speaker of the Punjab Assembly.
According to official sources, the draft includes a recommendation to omit Section 55(B), a provision that currently empowers police to arrest individuals if they fail to provide a satisfactory explanation during questioning. The proposed change is part of broader efforts to review and streamline police authority in routine criminal procedures.
The legislative committee reviewing the draft has expressed concerns over alleged misuse of the provision in past cases. Officials said the committee believes the existing clause may have contributed to arbitrary arrests and unnecessary legal action in certain situations.
Under the proposed amendments, police powers related to preventive arrests would be significantly limited. The revised framework suggests that such action should be restricted primarily to individuals with prior criminal records or those identified as habitual offenders, according to the draft proposal.
The committee has also requested a complete record of all cases in which Section 55(B) has been invoked to assess its application and impact. Officials said the review aims to ensure greater legal clarity, reduce misuse of discretionary powers, and strengthen procedural safeguards.
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