ISLAMABAD: In a significant development, the National Judicial Policy Making Committee (NJPMC), chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi, convened on Monday to address issues related to judicial independence and case management.
The meeting, which included all high court chief justices and the Attorney General of Pakistan, resulted in the approval of new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at safeguarding judges from external pressures.
A key decision was the mandate that any judge experiencing external interference must submit a formal complaint within 24 hours. The committee emphasized that the protection of the complainant’s dignity would be prioritized, and a resolution on such reports would be reached within two weeks (14 days).
To curb unnecessary commercial litigation, a dedicated committee under Justice Shafi Siddiqui was established. Furthermore, the panel set clear deadlines for case disposal: tenancy and family law cases are to be concluded within six months, inheritance and property disputes within one year, and murder cases within a maximum of two years.
The committee also addressed enforced disappearance cases, stipulating that individuals in detention must be produced before a court within 24 hours. The performance of the model criminal trial courts in Sindh and Peshawar High Courts received commendation.Additionally, the meeting agreed on the formation of a District Judiciary Policy Forum and initiatives to improve judge welfare. All high courts and district courts are now instructed to establish information and grievance redressal mechanisms.
The committee also highlighted the need to expedite the repatriation process for judges working in special courts and tribunals. The next NJPMC session is scheduled for October 17.
