–Justice Nisar says ‘all those who sought privileges will now be questioned over their performance’
–Stresses upon judges to dispose of thousands of pending cases on priority basis
ISLAMABAD/LAHORE: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar on Friday said the time had come for the judges to be held accountable.
The CJP made the comment while hearing a case pertaining to rules governing the subordinate judiciary of the Lahore High Court (LHC). The bench also comprises Justice Umar Ata Bandial and Justice Ijazul Ahsan.
Justice Nisar expressed confidence in the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) and stressed upon the accountability of judges. He said the masses yearned for justice and complained the courts were not performing to their full potential.
He remarked that all those who sought privileges will now be questioned over their performance. “Those who do not work will be held accountable.”
“Action will be taken under Article 209 against judges who take up less cases,” the chief justice announced.
In a separate hearing, the top judge questioned LHC’s performance and recalled a hearing where a single-bench judge of Muzaffargarh had revealed deciding only 22 cases in a month while a bench of the SC had decided at least 7, 000 cases.
Justice Nisar observed that the LHC had failed to uphold its responsibilities. “Have they reviewed cases filed in the high court?” he asked and summoned LHC registrar.
PENDING CASES:
Later in the day, while addressing a ceremony in Lahore, the chief justice stressed upon the judges to dispose of thousands of pending cases on a priority basis, saying those securing these posts should be grateful to this country.
“We have earned this country with great sacrifices; not through some charity,” the top judge said. “Only the fortunate are gifted with a blessing, known as freedom.”
The judiciary, Justice Nisar said, steps in when other authorities don’t do justice with their responsibilities. “We need to safeguard and protect the basic human rights.”
“I urge the judicial officers to work tirelessly to give the judiciary it’s rightful and dignified status,” he said, and added that the system needs to be modernised in line with the advancements of the present era.
The CJP stated, “There’s no one superior or supreme before the law; cases must be decided purely on merit.”
On the missing persons issue, the top judge said that he had tasked heads of the top intelligence agencies to determine the whereabouts of these people.