Justice Mandokhail Emphasizes Constitutional Rights at Labour Conference

Supreme Court Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail stated on Wednesday that dispensing justice belongs to God, while judges render verdicts based on the documentation presented.

Speaking at a national conference in Islamabad centred on “Workers and Employers in 2025: Navigating Change with Harmony,” Justice Mandokhail highlighted the equal rights of all individuals under the Constitution, asserting that compulsory labor is unconstitutional.

“We have sworn to safeguard the rights of every citizen, as guaranteed by the Constitution,” he affirmed.

The National Industrial Relations Commission (NIRC), in conjunction with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Pakistan, hosted the event to commemorate International Labour Day on Thursday.

Reflecting on his judicial role, Justice Mandokhail questioned, “Are we truly doing justice to our responsibilities? Am I adequately fulfilling my duties as a judge? The titles of labourer and judge are roles, not personal achievements.”

Justice Mandokhail revealed his intention to deviate from a prepared text, opting instead to speak candidly from the heart and the Constitution. “You often hear that judges prefer writing to speaking — but today, I wish to engage in open dialogue,” he added.

He voiced concerns regarding his faithfulness to his oath and sought divine guidance. “Justice is in the realm of Allah. Our decisions are based on the evidence and documents presented. A party might assert a right, but my ruling is confined to the submissions before me.”

Addressing the challenges faced by workers in his native province, particularly in the mining sector, Justice Mandokhail advocated for enhanced legislation to protect laborers, emphasizing that “no worker is anyone’s slave.”

He expressed significant concern about the insufficient institutional protections for mine workers, urging legal and administrative reforms to secure their welfare.

He further added that judges must deliver judgements without succumbing to external pressures, fears, or personal gain. “On behalf of my colleagues and myself, I assure you that we are committed to upholding justice and protecting constitutional rights.”

“While judges must adhere to the law, justice transcends the courtroom. Each person bears a responsibility to act justly,” he noted.

Justice Jawad Hassan of the Lahore High Court lauded Pakistan’s legal framework for labor rights, noting the country’s history of progressive labor laws, starting with the Industrial Relations Ordinance of 1969. “Pakistan has ratified almost all 48 international conventions pertaining to labour rights,” he stated.

NIRC Chairman Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui also addressed the gathering, reiterating the commission’s dedication to safeguarding workers’ rights. He emphasized NIRC’s goal of sustaining industrial productivity while ensuring workers’ livelihoods.

Siddiqui, appointed in December 2024, stated that his main objective is to foster collaboration between workers and employers. “We organised this conference to facilitate discussion. I am delighted to see workers and employers engaging at the same forum today.”