Community Perceptions of Justice in Balochistan: A Comparative Case Study of Formal Legal System and Jirga Practices in Qila Abdullah District
Keywords:
Jirga System, Formal Legal System, Legal Pluralism, Conflict Resolution, Pashtunwali, Human Rights, Cultural Legitimacy, Accessibility of Justice, Bias in Jirga, Hybrid Justice ModelAbstract
This study investigates the comparative efficiency, fairness, and cultural relevance of the Jirga system and the formal legal system in Qila Abdullah District. Using qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews and literature review, the research highlights how Jirga provides swift, affordable, and culturally embedded justice, often resolving disputes within days or weeks. In contrast, the formal legal system, though slow and bureaucratic, ensures procedural safeguards, impartiality, and constitutional rights protection. Findings reveal that while Jirga strengthens social cohesion and accessibility, it suffers from bias, lack of enforceability, and human rights concerns, particularly for women and minorities. The formal courts, despite inefficiencies, remain valued for accountability and fairness. The study concludes that integrating Jirga’s cultural legitimacy and speed with the safeguards of the formal judiciary could create a hybrid justice model, balancing tradition with modern legal standards to ensure equitable and trusted justice delivery.
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