Here’s a bold statement: Without seamless bench-bar coordination, the justice system is doomed to fail. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about judges and lawyers working together; it’s about building a system where justice is timely, transparent, and accessible to all. In a recent meeting in Islamabad, outgoing Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President Mian Mohammad Rauf Atta and his newly-elected successor, Haroonur Rasheed, met with Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi to discuss exactly this.
CJP Afridi didn’t hold back—he emphasized that the bench (judges) and the bar (lawyers) are the backbone of the justice system. But here’s where it gets controversial: While many assume coordination is a given, the CJP highlighted that sustained collaboration is often the missing link in delivering effective justice. He praised the outgoing cabinet for their cooperation and welcomed the new leadership, stressing that their partnership is crucial for reforms to succeed.
So, what’s changing? The CJP unveiled plans for institutional reforms aimed at making the justice system more accessible, transparent, and efficient. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can technology truly bridge the gap between legal processes and the public? The CJP thinks so. He announced the establishment of public facilitation centers at the Supreme Court’s principal seat and all branch registries, offering a one-stop solution for litigants and lawyers. These centers aim to provide timely information and streamline grievance redressal—a game-changer for those navigating the legal maze.
But it doesn’t stop there. The CJP assured that the system will evolve based on feedback from lawyers, litigants, and even visitors. And this is the part most people miss: Constructive criticism isn’t just welcome—it’s essential. He also clarified that case scheduling follows a strict policy, available online, while urgent cases are prioritized based on merit. Modernization is key, with technology being leveraged to reduce costs, streamline services, and simplify court processes.
Here’s a bold interpretation: While the Supreme Court vows to respect the independence of high courts, the real test lies in how these reforms play out in remote districts. The outgoing cabinet praised the CJP for his nationwide engagement, including visits to underserved areas—a move that hasn’t gone unnoticed. The newly-elected cabinet pledged to continue this collaborative spirit, focusing on accessible and efficient justice delivery.
The meeting ended on a high note, with the CJP presenting a shield to the outgoing cabinet as a token of respect, and they reciprocated with a memento. But here’s the question we leave you with: As reforms roll out, will the bench and bar truly align to deliver justice for all? Or will old challenges persist? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that matters.
