PESHAWAR: In a step towards strengthening judicial administration and improving court security, a modern police security apparatus and Malkhana were formally inaugurated at district courts in Abbottabad by Peshawar High Court senior puisne judge Justice Ijaz Anwar.

The facilities have been established in compliance with the directions of Peshawar High Court in a landmark case ‘Asifullah versus government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,’ aimed at reforming criminal justice system, and in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) framed thereunder.

On the occasion, Justice Ijaz Anwar also inaugurated the newly-established copying branch of district courts, aimed at facilitating litigants and improving the efficiency of judicial services.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Justice Syed Mudasser Ameer, Justice Aurangzeb, judicial officers of district judiciary, senior members of bar and the district police officer of Abbottabad.

The district and sessions judge of Abbottabad, Aabid Sarwar, briefed the visiting judges on the operational framework and functioning of the police security apparatus and Malkhana.

He highlighted their importance in ensuring secure and efficient execution of court processes in civil and criminal cases and in enhancing coordination between the judiciary and law enforcement agencies.

Addressing the gathering, Justice Ijaz Anwar stressed the need for making every possible effort to facilitate litigants and improving access to justice. He observed that judicial officers played a vital role in ensuring expeditious and effective administration of justice.

The senior puisne judge of PHC appreciated the efforts of district judiciary of Abbottabad in implementing the directives of Peshawar High Court and taking practical measures in the light of the judgement in ‘Asifullah versus government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’ case.

He expressed satisfaction over the progress achieved and underscored the importance of continuing institutional reforms to enhance public confidence in justice delivery system.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2026