Following constitution key to country's progress: CJP

MULTAN: Chief Justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry said on Saturday that country's survival, its progress and prosperity was linked to follow the constitution in its real spirit.

Addressing the lawyers of South Punjab in oath taking ceremony of elected representatives of highcourt, district and tehsil bar associations of South Punjab, he said that it was responsibility of the state to ensure protection of lives and propriety of masses and in case of failure, the courts issue orders and ensure their implementation.

All are equal in Islam as well as in the country's constitution, he added.

He said the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) ended all prejudices associated with territory, cast and colour in humans. He stated that no one was above the law.

The chief justice observed that existence of independent judiciary without strong bar associations would be difficult adding that lawyers would have to play their role. "I hope that lawyers will play their role for the implementation on constitution", he stated. He informed that Human right cell of the Supreme Court receives 150 to 200 applications from public and we try to take urgent measures.

"It is fearless support of judicial independence by Bar that gives hope in the future for supremacy of the constitution and rule of law," Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry said.

"We should not forget that whenever the history of rule of law will be written, the role of lawyers of South Punjab will be of frontliner," he added.

On this occasion, he administrated oath to the elected representatives of 45 Bar Associations of South Punjab.

LHC Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Shakarullah Jaan, Justice Tasadique Jilani, Justice Jahangir Arshid, HCBA President Mehmood Ashraf Khan and large number of lawyers were present.