LAHORE: Lahore High Court Chief Justice Aalia Neelum on Wednesday urged the legal fraternity to preserve judicial dignity and discourage the prevalent ‘strike culture’ among lawyers.

In a meeting with representatives from various district and tehsil bar associations, the chief justice focused on fostering a more efficient and respectful judicial environment while addressing the economic concerns of legal practitioners.

Chief Justice Neelum noted that frequent strikes and boycotts of courts not only disrupt the justice delivery system but also adversely affect lawyers, particularly those who rely on daily court proceedings for their livelihood.

“When courts remain closed, litigants are left without any option and the most vulnerable members of the legal profession suffer the most,” she stated.

She urged the legal community to seek alternative methods for resolving disputes, emphasising that strikes should not be the default response to grievances.

She said a collaborative and respectful environment is essential for upholding the rule of law and ensuring public trust in the judiciary. She called for mutual understanding and cooperation between the bar and bench to strengthen the judicial process.

The chief justice advised the lawyers to formally submit complaints in writing in case of any grievance against a judicial officer to ensure proper investigation and resolution.

At the meeting, the bar leaders raised several concerns including procedural and administrative challenges faced by lawyers.

Chief Justice Neelum assured the lawyers that resolving these issues was a top priority for the LHC.

She also took the opportunity to congratulate newly elected office-bearers of various bar associations, expressing hope about their role in advancing the legal profession and the justice system.

The meeting was attended by the representatives from the Supreme Court Bar Association, Lahore Bar Association and several district and tehsil bar associations.

Published in Dawn, April 17th, 2025