CJP Yahya Afridi Reaffirms Judiciary’s Commitment to Justice and Constitutional Supremacy

MUZAFFARABAD / ISLAMABAD – Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Yahya Afridi on Saturday underscored that the redressal of litigants’ grievances must remain the judiciary’s topmost priority, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to justice, transparency, and the rule of law.

Speaking at a judicial conference in Muzaffarabad held in connection with the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Supreme Court of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), the chief justice congratulated the AJK Supreme Court on completing 50 years of its establishment and formally inaugurated a commemorative memorial.

CJP Afridi noted that the judiciary in AJK had upheld the fundamental rights of the people, especially the marginalised, over the course of five decades, despite facing serious challenges. He pledged his full support to the AJK Supreme Court and acknowledged the court’s significant role in strengthening democratic values in the region.

He also referenced the delay in the Golden Jubilee celebrations, originally planned for May, stating that Indian provocations along the Line of Control (LoC) and the resulting martyrdom of several Kashmiris had plunged the region into mourning, necessitating the postponement.

The chief justice paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces and their commanders, lauding their “exemplary” defence of the nation’s borders.

AJK Chief Justice Raja Saeed Akram, speaking on the occasion, said the court had focused on protecting the constitutional rights of the people, particularly over the last five years.

Judicial Year 2025: Focus on Reform and Technology

Separately, while addressing the Judicial Conference at the Supreme Court of Pakistan earlier this week to mark the beginning of the judicial year 2025, CJP Afridi reiterated the judiciary’s longstanding mission to uphold the rule of law and the Constitution.

He said that the tradition of holding a judicial conference dates back to the 1970s and has been regularly observed since 2004, providing an opportunity for performance review and setting future goals.

Highlighting progress in digital transformation, the chief justice announced that digital case filing and tracking systems are being introduced at the Supreme Court. Under this initiative, 61,000 case files will be digitised within six months. He also noted that the use of AI for case scheduling is under consideration, although the judiciary is not yet fully equipped to adopt it immediately.

Furthermore, he shared that a Facilitation Centre at the Supreme Court would become fully operational by October to assist litigants and improve access to justice.

CJP Afridi concluded by reiterating the judiciary’s unwavering dedication to swift case disposal, accountability, and ensuring that the Supreme Court remains a people’s court – accessible, transparent, and efficient.

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