As part of his judicial reforms to improve service delivery and promote equitable access to justice, Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi, who also serves as Chairman of the Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan, has launched a unique initiative to visit the remotest districts of each province. Recently, the Chief Justice visited Ghotki, one of Sindh’s remotest districts, accompanied by Justice Mohammad Shafi Siddiqui, Chief Justice of the High Court of Sindh, and Registrars from the Supreme Court and High Court of Sindh.
During interactive sessions with District and Sessions Judges and bar representatives from Ghotki and nearby districts, including Kashmore, Shikarpur, Sukkur, and Larkana, Justice Afridi stressed the judiciary's obligation to ensure justice in underprivileged and remote areas. He highlighted that district courts, as the first point of contact for litigants, are critical in shaping public trust in the justice system. The CJP reminded judicial officers of their constitutional duty to ensure justice and encouraged them to maintain a welcoming and empathetic approach towards litigants.
Justice Afridi urged judicial officers to treat litigants as key stakeholders, emphasising kindness, empathy, and respect to build trust in the judiciary. He described courts as more than halls of law but symbols of hope and fairness for those seeking redress.
The Chief Justice also assured judicial officers of improved work conditions, safety, dignity, and resources in remote areas. He urged High Courts to prioritise the appointment of skilled officers to these districts and ensure their tenure stability. To enhance their capabilities, he proposed initiatives such as prioritising foreign training, professional development opportunities through the Law and Justice Commission, and establishing e-campus facilities for continuous learning. Justice Afridi also suggested recognising postings in remote areas as a mark of distinction and introducing video link facilities to support lawyers, breaking geographical barriers.
Addressing representatives of the bar associations, Justice Afridi discussed issues affecting justice administration in remote districts and committed to resolving their concerns promptly. He announced capacity-building training programmes at the Federal Judicial Academy in Islamabad. Additionally, he highlighted the Access to Justice Development Fund (AJDF), designed to support legal practitioners in underserved regions, enabling them to advance justice and promote equitable access.
The Chief Justice reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the judiciary, particularly in regions that face significant socio-economic and geographical challenges, ensuring that the justice system remains accessible and fair for all.