Timely justice is essential for a fair legal system, emphasized Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi. Speaking at a consultative meeting with senior judicial officials, he highlighted the urgent need for reforms to reduce case backlogs and improve access to justice.
Judicial Reforms and Digitalization
The meeting, attended by top officials such as Supreme Court Registrar Muhammad Saleem Khan and Federal Judicial Academy Director General, focused on modernizing the judicial system. Discussions revolved around digital case filing, accountability, and transparency.
The IT Directorate briefed participants on new technologies being introduced to streamline legal proceedings. These advancements aim to make the judiciary more efficient and accessible for both lawyers and litigants.
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Addressing Case Backlogs
Pakistan’s judicial system is burdened with millions of pending cases. Currently, around 57,000 cases await resolution in the Supreme Court, while over 2.4 million cases are pending in other courts nationwide.
From October 28, 2024, to March 7, 2025, the courts managed to dispose of 12,109 cases, but 7,370 new cases were filed in the same period. The backlog remains a significant concern, making judicial reforms even more urgent.
Key Reforms to Improve Justice Delivery
CJP Afridi’s reform strategy includes several technology-driven initiatives to speed up case resolution and improve efficiency:
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E-Affidavit System: A digital filing process designed to minimize delays and make documentation more accessible.
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Case Management System: Allows litigants and lawyers to track cases and obtain certified copies instantly.
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Enhanced Transparency Measures: Strengthening accountability mechanisms to improve public trust in the judiciary.
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Feedback Channels: Engaging legal professionals and the public to refine the judicial process based on real-time experiences.
A Step Towards a Modern Justice System
CJP Afridi reiterated that judicial reforms should focus on efficiency, accessibility, and accountability. By integrating technology and improving case management, the courts aim to deliver faster and fairer justice to the people. These measures, if implemented effectively, could significantly reduce delays and restore confidence in Pakistan’s legal system.
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