ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: Chief Justice Yahya Afridi has officially inaugurated the new judicial year with a powerful address at a judicial conference in the federal capital, laying out an ambitious roadmap to modernize and reform Pakistan’s justice system.
Since taking charge in October 2024, CJP Afridi has emphasized the urgent need for technology-driven reforms, transparency, and speed in justice delivery. In his speech, he revealed that the Supreme Court will now focus on swift case processing through its eight sections, with digital transformation at the heart of the plan.
One of the most significant announcements was the launch of a digital file screening project, which aims to scan and digitize more than 61,000 case files within six months. Once completed, an AI-based case scheduling system will be introduced to bring efficiency and fairness in how cases are fixed.
Afridi further disclosed that from October 1, a new facilitation centre will begin operations at the Supreme Court, offering litigants easy access to case details, records, and updates. Institutional reforms are also in the pipeline, with proposals set to be reviewed by a dedicated committee before formal implementation.
Interestingly, the CJP also announced a reduction in judges’ security convoys inside Islamabad’s Red Zone, stating that excessive protocols are unnecessary in such a secure area, though security will remain in place when judges travel outside the capital.
Afridi’s vision signals a shift towards a modern, transparent, and people-centric judiciary, raising hopes that long-delayed reforms may finally take shape.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.