THE backlog of cases in the judicial system is alarming. According to a review by the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta), more than 600 terrorism cases were pending in 2023. Also, under the prevailing circumstances, there is a general perception that the dispensation of justice is vulnerable to outside influences. And, finally, corruption, particularly within the lower judiciary, poses a serious threat to the community’s overall wellbeing.

Unfortunately, the judicial system has struggled to deliver timely justice. A major issue is the prolonged resolution of legal cases, some of which linger on for gene-rations without resolution.

The burden on the courts is substantial, with both the superior and lower judic-iaries facing an overwhelming backlog of 2.144 million cases. The people of Pakistan deserve a fair and swift justice system, which is achievable only by alleviating the burden on the courts.

Immediate action is needed to secure people’s fundamental right to a transp-arent and efficient justice system.

Abdul Basit Alvi
Muzaffarabad

Published in Dawn, October 23th, 2024