CJP greets legal fraternity on Eidul Fitr.

ISLAMABAD, September 16, 2009 (Balochistan Times): On the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, the Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry has paid his well wishes to entire judicial fraternity. In his message on the occasion of Eid-ul Fitr, the Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry said, let me offer you, your family and members of your Bar Association a very happy Eid. I pray that Allah Almighty may shower His blessings on you and grant you long, happy and contented life. He said Ramadan is an occasion for Muslims to seek forgiveness and renew their dedication to attain spiritual heights. It also offers opportunity to practice philanthropy and assist those who are poor/in need. The spirit of Ramadan goes even beyond: to share the pain/suffering of others, give relief/solace to those who have suffered any injury and offer protection to those under threat. As members of legal/judicial fraternity, we need to sustain our mission and rededicate our efforts to serve the litigant public, restore rights/entitlements to genuine claimants and give comfort/relief to the aggrieved, he added. Chief justice said it is a legal responsibility, social obligation and carry, as per Islamic thought and philosophy, spiritual rewards. Therefore, all the more need for sustained efforts to continue to serve the nation. The best way to serve is to strengthen the institution of judiciary, to address the challenge of ever-increasing litigation and fulfil the heightened expectations of general public, he Justice Chaudhry said. Remember that the administration of justice is a joint responsibility of the Bench and the Bar. The two, therefore, have to be in unison and work in harmony to attain the goals. The National Judicial Policy, which enjoys consensus of all the stakeholders, is the judiciarys response to make justice accessible and decide cases/complaints freely, fairly and expeditiously. Our primary goal is to strengthen the constitutional norms and the State institutions in the country. The administration of justice, an important State pillar, can contribute its bit to the national development by acquiring greater independence and dispensing justice to all, without any distinction or discrimination on the basis of class, creed, colour or social/political background. There is a need for bringing about greater efficiency in the functioning of courts to enhance public confidence in the administration of justice. We need to establish a clean, efficient and accountable judicial system in the country. To do so, we have to join hands and strive hard for such a laudable goal. This will require earnest efforts, constant struggle and sacrifices, as demonstrated in the recent past. There is no dearth of such courageous and committed professionals amongst our ranks, he said. Currently, we are passing through a difficult phase of institution-building/strengthening. I will, therefore, urge you to extend full support and cooperation for this worthy cause. Let me conclude by offering you, once more, a very happy Eid, the Chief Justice said.

(THROUGH ASIA PULSE)