Legal Case Summary

Case Details
Case ID e0b47ed9-aa1c-47ff-9f36-67b7ef250a3f
Body View case body.
Case Number Criminal Appeal No.247 of 2006
Decision Date May 04, 2009
Hearing Date
Decision The Supreme Court of Pakistan, in its decision dated May 4, 2009, converted the death sentence of Muhammad Tariq into imprisonment for life. The court found that the accused was a first-time offender with no prior criminal record, and the extreme penalty of death was deemed too harsh. The court emphasized the discretion afforded to it under the Control of Narcotics Substances Act, 1997, allowing for consideration of the circumstances surrounding the case. The court maintained the fine imposed by the trial court while granting the benefit of Section 382-B of the Cr.P.C. The appeal was dismissed with the modification of the sentence.
Summary In the case of Muhammad Tariq vs. The State, the Supreme Court of Pakistan evaluated the application of the Control of Narcotics Substances Act, 1997, specifically Section 9(c) regarding the imposition of sentences for drug-related offenses. The case stemmed from the apprehension of Muhammad Tariq, who was found in possession of a significant quantity of narcotics. Initially sentenced to death, the appeal process revealed the importance of the offender's background in determining the appropriate punishment. The court ultimately decided to reduce the sentence to life imprisonment, citing the need for justice and the possibility of rehabilitation for first-time offenders. This decision highlights the court's ability to exercise discretion in sentencing, particularly in cases involving narcotics, where the nature of the offense and the character of the accused can lead to varied outcomes. The ruling serves as a precedent for future cases involving similar circumstances, emphasizing the balance between upholding the law and allowing for mercy in appropriate situations.
Court Supreme Court of Pakistan
Entities Involved Not available
Judges MIAN SHAKIRULLAH, JAN, SHEIKH HAKIM ALI, SARDAR MUHAMMAD ASLAM
Lawyers Not available
Petitioners MUHAMMAD TARIQ
Respondents THE STATE
Citations 2009 SLD 1806, 2009 SCMR 1220
Other Citations Not available
Laws Involved Control of Narcotics Substances Act, 1997
Sections 9(c)