Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi is currently addressing a judicial conference in Islamabad, which marks the commencement of the new judicial year.
The top judge observed that the conference, initiated in 1970, provided the court with an opportunity to reflect on its performance. He said that after assuming the CJP’s office in October 2024, he felt the need for reforms, which were categorised based on “five principles”.
“We prioritised service delivery through technology, transparency in cases, and legal framework,” the CJP said. Noting that the apex court had eight sections, CJP Afridi said each section prioritised speedy justice.
Highlighting the meetings held to discuss the SC’s reform plan, the top judge said digital case-filing and case-tracking were among the measures raised.
“Everyone speaks of technology and artificial intelligence,” Justice Afridi said, adding that 61,000 files will be digitally screened under a project that will be completed within six months.
“Cases will be fixed using artificial intelligence,” he announced. However, he cautioned, the judiciary was “not yet ready” to utilise AI. The usage of AI would be initiated once the digital scanning project is completed, according to the CJP.
Justice Afridi also spoke of a facilitation centre, which will begin its operations on October 1 and will provide “all details” related to cases. Reiterating the need for speedy disposal of cases, he asserted: “We have always worked for the supremacy of the law.”
Emphasising that rules cannot be made within a single day, the judge said suggestions will be presented before a proposals committee, which would then make recommendations.
During his address, the chief justice also said the security provided to him and other judges has been reduced, as well as the protocols in Islamabad’s Red Zone, which houses key government buildings.
“I used to have nine security vehicles with me so, I said that this much security was not needed inside the Red Zone as it has the court and residences.
CJP Afridi remarked that judges could need security when going outside of Islamabad, but not as much when in the Red Zone.
More to follow
