Govt for amending, not repealing, FCR

ISLAMABAD - Coalition government is considering amendments in Frontier Crimes Regulations (FCR) instead of repealing the draconian law.
TheNation has reliably learnt that some groups who have firmed up proposals on the fate of FCR underscored need for reforming the British era law by bringing about amendments to meet present day needs rather than repealing it.
These groups, sources maintained, have advised the government to amend clauses relating to human rights and administrative jurisdiction of competent authority in order to make it a more workable law.
"Government would move on the subject after developing consensus based on recommendations being solicited from stakeholders", a senior government official said.
Some tribal groups in FATA have also called for bringing about certain amendments in the existing FCR and renaming it as FATA FCR.
Nevertheless, Political parties that are involved in developing consensus for amicable solution, are not only seeking amendments in the existing law but also want extension of Political Parties Act to the tribal belt so that tribesmen of FATA are given adequate representation in the Parliament to bring them at par with settled districts.
Coalition partner ANP that has initiated efforts including holding jirgas with tribesmen is of the strong view that FATA be merged into NWFP and tribesmen given due representation in the provincial Assembly.
However, some other groups involved in firming up recommendations for the coalition government are of unanimous opinion that tribesmen should have representation in National Assembly and the Senate as well.
Politico-religious forces including Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam of Maulana Fazlur Rehman and sitting MNAS and senators from FATA have yet to submit their proposals.
However, Jammat-i-Islami that had boycotted the recent general elections is supportive of enforcing Islamic governance system in line with reforms carried out in Malakand region.