Law and Justice Commission Mandates Timely Complaint Filing for Judicial Interference

ISLAMABAD: During a session held on Monday, the Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan (LJCP) resolved that any judge encountering external pressure concerning judicial matters must formally register their grievance within a 24-hour timeframe.

The assembly, presided over by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi, saw the attendance of all high court chief justices, along with the Attorney General of Pakistan. The assembly also gave its approval to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The attendees reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring prompt and efficient dispensation of justice. It was determined that any interference complaint must be lodged within a day, with full protection of the complainant judge’s dignity assured. A resolution regarding the complaint would be expected within two weeks.

To curb superfluous commercial litigation, a committee was created, led by Justice Shafi Siddiqui. The session also outlined timelines for case resolutions: tenancy and family disputes are to be settled within a half-year, inheritance and property cases within a year, and murder trials within a maximum of two years.

Moreover, the committee decreed that individuals in cases of enforced disappearance must be presented before a court within 24 hours.

The Sindh High Court and the Peshawar High Court (PHC) model criminal trial courts’ performances were lauded. The council also agreed to formulate proposals for establishing a District Judiciary Policy Forum and supporting judges’ welfare.

Further directives included the establishment of information and grievance resolution platforms across all high courts and district courts. The meeting also pledged to address delays in repatriating judges serving in special courts and tribunals.

The subsequent assembly of the National Judicial Policy Making Committee is scheduled for October 17, as stated in the official release.