Shura set to debate bills on non-custodial punishments

TDT | Manama

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The Shura Council will discuss today two draft laws, one expanding the use of non-custodial punishments and the other revising how the justice system handles cases involving children.

The first, reviewed by the Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee, proposes amendments to the 2017 law on alternative sentencing.

It introduces new penalties such as banning access to certain websites, ordering regular check-ins at police stations, and placing offenders in mental health or care facilities instead of prison. Responsibility for carrying out these measures would rest with the Interior Ministry.

Institutions

The Interior Minister would decide which institutions would be involved.

The proposal also sets out a clearer framework for coordination between the ministry, the Public Prosecution and sentencing judges.

The government’s legal memo says the changes are based on lessons drawn from seven years of implementation.

The aim is to expand the system while helping offenders reintegrate into society without being cut off from their families or jobs.

Experience

Bahrain’s experience with alternative sentencing is described in the report as one of the most developed in the region.

Also up for debate is a proposal reviewed by the Women and Child Affairs Committee to amend the 2021 law on reform justice and child protection.

The changes would give the Child Protection Centre a stronger role in court assessments, allow greater flexibility in handling cases, and let courts revise or end a child’s sentence at any time.

Non-custodial measures

They would also allow judges to impose non-custodial measures in serious cases when there are reasons to do so, and to monitor the child’s progress during the sentence.

The Interior Ministry’s child protection unit would be allowed to take part in follow-up.

Both items are scheduled for discussion and a vote during the session.