PU Conference Urges Judicial Reforms to Combat White-Collar Crimes

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At a groundbreaking conference held at Punjab University (PU), experts called for the judiciary to embrace modern technology to effectively combat white-collar crimes. The event, organized by the PU Institute of Social and Cultural Studies (ISCS) in collaboration with the Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy (ILRA), focused on the theme “The Nexus between Corruption, Fraud, and Money Laundering: Challenges and Strategies.”

Prominent figures such as Prof Dr. Rubeena Zakar, Director of ISCS, renowned jurist Zafar Iqbal Kalanauri, Syed Shahbaz Bukhari, Chairman of the Institute for Legal Research and Education, former Punjab Bar Council member Chaudhry Ghulam Murtaza, Dr. Muhammad Ramzan, along with faculty members and students, were present.

In his keynote address, Zafar Iqbal Kalanauri lamented the inefficacy of current anti-corruption institutions. He emphasized the need for training investigators and incorporating technology in judicial processes to prevent criminals from exploiting system loopholes. “Our investigation officers are not trained to catch corruption, and our courts are not using modern technology, which ultimately benefits the criminals,” Kalanauri stated. He stressed the importance of technical education for the youth, viewing them as the primary agents for Pakistan’s development.

Syed Shahbaz Bukhari criticized the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for their lackluster approach towards significant cases, often treating them as matters of luck. Bukhari highlighted the pervasive corruption within the very institutions meant to curb it, leading to a collapsed justice system where cases drag on for years. He urged the youth to trust in their abilities and acquire relevant skills to secure global opportunities.

Chaudhry Ghulam Murtaza called for a collective effort from the judiciary, media, and parliament to root out corruption, pointing out that the problem is entrenched within powerful institutions. “The more empowered, the more corrupt,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for a unified approach to tackle the issue.

Prof Dr. Rubeena Zakar highlighted the interconnectedness of corruption, fraud, and money laundering, noting their detrimental effects on governance, economic stability, and societal trust. She expressed hope that the young students present would act as ambassadors of change, leveraging their talents to drive national prosperity.

Dr. Muhammad Ramzan stressed the societal normalization of corruption and advocated for regular awareness seminars and conferences to shift public perception and foster a culture of integrity.

The conference concluded with a call to action for legislative amendments that accommodate modern technological tools to efficiently punish major offenders, signaling a step towards a more robust and transparent judicial system.