CJP chairs NJPMC meeting

QUETTA: An independent and strong system of administration of justice ensures stability, rule of law and good governance in the society.

No one can deny that the good governance, in turn leads to socio economic development by generating commercial activities and investment opportunities, said Chief Justice of Pakistan

Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry while addressing the meeting of National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee held here at Conference room of the Balochistan High Court on Saturday.

Chief Justices of Federal Sharia Court, Islamabad High Court and all provincial High Courts were present the meeting.

When we look around, will find the success is adherence to the Constitution, rule of law and a system of government, which provides good governance and strong administration, CJ said.

He said the provision of expeditious and inexpensive justice to all segments of society is the main concern of National judicial (Policy Making) Committee adding that’s why efforts are being made to improve the capacity and performance of justice sector institutions.

He noted that after implementation of National Judicial Policy, the disposal rate as well as performance of the justice sector institution has improved considerably.

CJ Pakistan said that the performance of district judiciary in the backdrop of Policy will also be reviewed, adding It is considered view that this is the time to identify the shortcomings which are frustrating our commitment to provide expeditious and inexpensive justice for all.

Talking about the jail conditions, he added that, the strong exception to the deteriorating conditions of jails has been taken and it is realized that there is a dire need for reforms in jails to provide and environment to the convicts that after serving their term they should be reintegrated into society as responsible and law abiding citizens

In order to alleviate the sufferings of prison inmates and improve the living conditions in jails, directions are being issued to the concerned authorities. Simultaneously, the District & Sessions Judges and Additional District & Sessions Judges are directed to visit jails fortnightly and examine the record of production of prisoners and overall situation in jails to know the attitude and behavior of jail officers with the prisoners.

Talking about the National Judicial Policy, he said that, the Policy sets out a roadmap to achieve the sacred purpose of prompt dispensation of justice by an independent and upright judiciary.

The Policy is not something sacrosanct, he said adding It is continuously under review to revise and meet its predetermined goals of providing adequate, prompt and impartial relief to all persons who come before us, irrespective of their status, ethnic background, religion or gender.

CJ also sought suggestions for enhancing the effectiveness of Policy and how to strengthen the system of administration of Justice. (APP)