ISLAMABAD, Sept 11: Supreme Court Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry has said that the image and credibility of a judicial system can only be improved if it delivers inexpensive, speedy and impartial justice.

He stressed the need for strengthening the institutions which build nations and shape countries. Institutions symbolise both strengths and weaknesses of any polity and, therefore, have vital role in attainment of the goals set out in the constitution, the CJ observed while speaking at a ceremony marking commencement of the new judicial year (2006-2007) in the Supreme Court building on Monday.

In resolving controversies, he said, there should be no favourites before courts — no likes or dislikes. As soon as a person is appointed judge, he or she parts ways with his acquaintances, the CJ observed, adding that judges were expected to display and practice high standards of integrity and professionalism.

“They have to earn public trust and confidence through hard work, commitment and integrity of character,” he observed.

Dispelling a misperception about the SC vacations, he said practically the court did not remain closed even for a single day. The judges were mindful of the backlog and fresh institutions which warranted urgent hearings, therefore they worked during vacations.

Benches continued to work at Islamabad and Lahore throughout the vacation, besides working intermittently at Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta.