ISLAMABAD: A 50-member delegation of the Command and Staff College, Quetta, headed by Directing Staff, Lt Col Mohammad Sheraz Iqbal Cheema, called on Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial on Monday.

The chief justice, who welcomed the delegation comprising course participants from officers of the armed forces of 25 friendly countries, gave an overview of the Constitution and briefed it about trichotomy in Pakistan and the functions and importance of each organ of the state - parliament, executive and judiciary.

The delegation was briefed about the judicial system, its functioning role, dispensation of justice and constitutional jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and high courts and the jurisdiction of the district courts.

The CJP emphasised that access of citizens to courts under an efficient and effective system of justice was the first condition for fair dispensation of justice and apprised them of the fundamental rights assured by the Constitution.

Chief Justice Bandial informed the delegation about the contribution made by the court in the development of laws assuring rights of minorities, children, women and environmental protection.

He said the Armed Forces in Pakistan had a constitutional role of the country’s defence and

to aid civilian government, adding that in performing their duties, soldiers of all ranks have laid down their lives in the service of the country, Later, he answered questions of the participants in an interactive session.

The delegation presented a shield to the chief justice as a token of remembrance while CJP Bandial also reciprocated the gesture of goodwill by presenting a shield to the delegation.

Earlier, the delegation witnessed court proceedings before different benches at the Supreme Court.

Published in Dawn, February 7th, 2023