Mental Illness and Criminal Responsibility in Pakistan: Reassessing Mens Rea Through Legal and Psychological Perspectives

Abstract

This paper discusses the intersection of mental illness and criminal motive in the Pakistani justice system. It explores how schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or PTSD conditions affect cognitive functions, volitional control, and impulse regulation and, as such, hinder the establishment of mens rea. The existing psychiatric evaluation of the criminal cases is still inconsistent, and the legal system, as well as the forensic facilities in Pakistan, are still rather underdeveloped. Therefore, an international focus on mental health issues is bringing increased questioning. The article also aims to merge legal theory and psychological jurisprudence by utilizing the best practices of other nations to identify gaps and offer practical solutions that can be implemented. It is a cross-disciplinary lens based on scholarship to promote equality, support human rights, and enhance the rights of individuals with mental illness. The intersection of mental health and intent, the historical and theoretical context, the applicable legislation and issues, and the opportunities to improve assessment and other criminal process enhancements by utilizing legal and psychiatric tools are outlined.