Appointments in judiciary to be made on merit: CJ.

ISLAMABAD, October 23, 2009 (Balochistan Times): Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry on Friday said that appointments in judiciary would be made on merit and honest, hardworking judicial officers would be elevated. He was talking to a delegation of Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) headed by its President Ali Ahmad Kurd, which called on him at the Supreme Court. The delegation, during the courtesy call, briefed the Chief Justice about suggestions to expedite justice system and problems faced by their community. They reassured their commitment toward quick disposal of cases and dispensation of justice to the litigants working in extra time and utilizing all energies as desired by the Chief Justice of Pakistan. They also informed him about the problems they were facing. The Chief Justice directed the office to take necessary action to resolve their problems. He lauded their dedication and efforts during the historic movement for rule of law and supremacy of the Constitution. He said the whole nation acknowledged the sacrifices and commitment shown by the legal fraternity to bring a true and effective change in the society for the sake of democracy, civilized culture of justice, equality, rule of law and supremacy of the Constitution. The CJ urged the lawyers that public have great expectations from the Bar and the Bench and their role in redressal of grievances to the litigants by preparing their cases in a very professional manner and assisting the courts not as representatives of clients but as officers of the court, sharing the responsibility to do justice is very essential. He informed the delegation about the steps and initiatives taken by the judiciary for quick disposal of cases and providing relief to all stakeholders of judicial system. The CJ said that the civil and criminal courts are being separated so as to expedite disposal in light of NJP. He further told that ratio of hearing of cases (50% new, 50% old) has been fixed under NJPM 2009. He further told them that emoluments of judicial officers and staff of Punjab High Court have been raised to a suitable level. Efforts are also being made to enhance and equalize the same in other provinces as well. The lawyers told the CJ that special court might be shifted in vicinity of District Courts so that they find it convenient. The CJ informed them that this matter pertains to High courts and he will have to discuss with the Chief Justice of High Courts for necessary action to facilitate lawyers and litigants. Ali Ahmad Kurd, President Supreme Court Bar Association lauded the efforts on the part of CJ regarding improvement in judicial system to provide relief to the people, who have great expectations due to overwhelming confidence in the Chief Justice. He reiterated commitment and dedication for the cause for independent and functional judicial system in the country and assured full cooperation from the members of the bar in this respect. The Chief Justice presented a shield of honour to Ali Ahmed Kurd as a token of appreciation of the role of bar and services rendered.

(THROUGH ASIA PULSE)