RAWALPINDI: Lahore High Court Chief Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmed Khan on Friday emphasised the need to expedite efforts for the timely disposal of cases in the Rawalpindi bench and district courts of Rawalpindi Division, directing the judges to take concrete steps to achieve this goal.

He stated this during his visit to the Rawalpindi bench of the Lahore High Court. Upon arrival, he was warmly received by Senior Puisne Judge Justice Shujaat Ali Khan, Justice Sadaqat Ali Khan, Justice Mirza Waqas Rauf, and Justice Chaudhry Abdul Aziz. A police guard of honour was also presented to the chief justice.

During his visit, Chief Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmed Khanchaired a meeting with the judges of the Rawalpindi bench and discussed various matters related to the expeditious disposal of cases.

The meeting focused on identifying measures to accelerate the hearing of pending cases and ensure the provision of swift justice to litigants. The chief justice also reviewed the performance of the district judiciary and directed the judges to take all necessary steps to improve its efficiency and effectiveness.

His lordship issued directions to ensure the presence of district judges in the courtrooms during court hours and to use the biometric system to mark their attendance.

The chief justice further directed that the inspection judges of the relevant districts be given control of the cameras installed inside and outside the courts to monitor the presence of judicial officers.

The meeting also discussed measures to enhance the performance of the district judiciary and to prioritise the disposal of old cases. The chief justice issued instructions to the judges to decide cases on a priority basis and to ensure that justice is provided to litigants without delay.

Later, he met with the judges of the Rawalpindi bench and discussed various administrative matters. He was also scheduled to attend an important meeting at the Supreme Court.

Published in Dawn, May 4th, 2024