Islamabad – The Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) has recommended the confirmation of 11 ad hoc judges of the Lahore High Court (LHC) as permanent judges, a step seen as significant for enhancing judicial stability and addressing the mounting backlog of cases in the country’s largest high court.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the JCP chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi, where the performance, integrity and professional records of 13 ad hoc LHC judges were reviewed in detail. After deliberations, the commission approved the permanent appointment of 11 judges by majority vote.
According to officials familiar with the proceedings, the commission examined service records, judgments, data forms and overall conduct before reaching its recommendations. Judicial circles believe the move reflects confidence in the competence and judicial temperament of the judges under consideration.
At the same meeting, the JCP decided to extend the tenure of one additional judge for a further period to allow more time for evaluation, while another judge was not approved for permanent appointment. These decisions underline the commission’s stated approach of merit-based scrutiny rather than automatic confirmations.
Legal experts say the confirmation of a large number of judges at the LHC is likely to improve efficiency and continuity in judicial proceedings. The Lahore High Court, which caters to Punjab — the country’s most populous province — handles a heavy caseload spanning civil, criminal, constitutional and commercial matters.
Observers also note that strengthening the permanent bench can help ensure consistency in judgments and reduce delays caused by frequent changes in judicial composition. The recommendations will now be forwarded to the President of Pakistan for formal approval, after which official notifications are expected to be issued.
Once confirmed, the newly appointed judges will continue their duties without the uncertainty associated with ad hoc status, a development widely welcomed within the legal fraternity.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.