WHILE the country has inherited a distinguished legal tradition, and introduced important constitutional and legislative reforms over the decades, the time has come to determine whether its judicial system meets the requirements of a modern democratic state. Public discussion on judicial reforms generally centres on delays in the disposal of cases, the mounting backlog of cases and shortage of judges. These are undoubtedly serious concerns, but they are symptoms rather than the underlying problem.

Now the larger question is whether the existing legal framework, judicial procedures and court administration have kept pace with the profound social, economic as well as technological changes that Pakistan has undergone since independence.

Much of Pakistan’s legal framework has its origins in laws enacted during the colonial period. Those laws served the administrative needs of their time and provided the foundations of an organised legal system.

However, every legal system must evolve to reflect changing realities. A justice system designed for a colonial adminis-tration cannot remain static when confronted with the demands of a modern constitutional democracy, a complex market economy, rapid technological change and an increasingly informed citizenry.

Meaningful reforms must extend beyond increasing the number of judges or improving court infrastructure. They should include a comprehensive review of both substantive and procedural laws governing civil, criminal and commercial litigation. Procedures that unnecessarily prolong litigation should be simplified, avoidable adjournments discouraged, greater reliance placed on scientific case management and resolution of cases within clearly defined timeframes. Wider use of digital technology, electronic filing, online case tracking and specialised courts can further improve efficiency.

Equally important is the strengthening of the subordinate judiciary, where the overwhelming majority of citizens first encounter the justice system. Judicial education, professional training, court administration, legal aid, mediation and arbitration require renewed attention. An efficient and well-supported trial court system is the cornerstone upon which the credibility of the entire judicial structure ultimately depends.

Pakistan needs a national commission on legal and judicial reforms entrusted with the task of undertaking a compre-

hensive review of the justice delivery system. Such a commission should comprise retired judges of acknowledged integrity, eminent jurists, experienced parliamen-tarians representing both the treasury and the opposition, senior lawyers, legal academics, experts in public administration and specialists in information technology.

Its mandate should extend to reviewing substantive and procedural laws, court administration, judicial education, use of technology, alternative dispute resolution and access to justice. It should prepare a programme of phased implementation with clear priorities and measurable outcomes.

Judicial reforms are not a matter concerning lawyers and judges alone. It is fundamental to constitutional governance, protection of citizens’ rights, economic development and public confidence in state institutions. Pakistan has successfully undertaken reforms in many sectors over the years. The justice system deserves the same sustained national attention.

A modern, efficient and accessible legal and judicial system is indispensable to the rule of law and to the country’s long-term democratic and economic progress. The time has come to replace incremental adjustments with a comprehensive programme of legal and judicial reforms to meet the aspirations of a modern Pakistan.

M. Shaban Uppal
Lahore

Published in Dawn, October 10th, 2026