CJP Yahya Afridi unveils major reforms at judicial year ceremony

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi marked the opening of the new judicial year with a comprehensive address at the Judicial Conference, outlining sweeping reforms aimed at modernising the Supreme Court and enhancing transparency, accountability, and accessibility.

The annual ceremony is a tradition that began in the 1970s and has been consistently celebrated since 2004. Today as well, it served as a platform for the CJP to reflect on the judiciary’s performance and future direction.

Also read: SC resumes judicial work as new year begins tomorrow, roster issued

Following his assumption of office, CJP Afridi said he and his team recognised the urgent need for reform. He revealed that the reforms have begun on five grounds, although the specific areas were not detailed during the speech.

Key initiatives announced include the establishment of an Anti-Corruption Helpline within the Supreme Court, and the activation of a Public Opinion Portal to foster civic engagement.

A Facilitation Center has also been launched to provide all relevant information to lawyers and citizens without disrupting court operations. The center will be inaugurated today and become fully operational by October 1.

A significant portion of the CJP’s address focused on leveraging technology in the justice system. A digital case filing system and e-services platform have already been developed.

CJP said that everyone is talking about technology and artificial intelligence, adding that while the judiciary supports AI integration, readiness is still evolving. “Artificial intelligence should be used in the justice system… We are not ready for it immediately,” he said.

A major digital scanning project is also underway, involving the digitisation of 61,000 files, expected to be completed in six months. “Cases will be assigned through artificial intelligence,” the Chief Justice announced, noting that AI integration will commence once the scanning phase is successfully completed.

In a move toward greater accountability, CJP Afridi said, “Today I am announcing that we have also conducted an internal audit.” He underscored that transparency in the judicial system will provide justice and reiterated that “the Supreme Court belongs to everyone.”

The chief justice also addressed internal court protocols and administrative matters. Clarifying the rules on judicial vacations, he said, “No judge needs permission during judicial vacations,” though “it will be mandatory to inform for leave other than holidays.”

In a gesture reflecting modesty and a move to reduce public expenditure, the chief justice announced a significant cut to his personal security detail. “I used to have nine security vehicles with me,” he said. “I have reduced my security vehicles to only two.” He added, “There is a court and residence in the red zone, so there is no need for so much security.”

Chief Justice Afridi also criticised the old practice of handling case scheduling. “Requests for early appointment of cases used to lie in the Chief Justice’s room throughout the year,” he said, while pledging to reform this system and ensure timely processing of cases.

Also read: Supreme Court to hear Imran Khan’s bail appeals on August 12

While acknowledging that “rules cannot be made in a day,” he assured that all proposals will be reviewed by the relevant committee.

Concluding his address, CJP Afridi reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to the rule of law, stating, “We have always worked for the rule of law.”

Web Desk