ISLAMABAD: The backlog of pending cases in Pakistan’s Supreme Court has once again risen to over 57,000, highlighting persistent challenges in the judicial system despite recent reforms, including the 26th constitutional amendment and the establishment of a dedicated constitutional bench.
When Chief Justice Yahya Khan Afridi assumed office, approximately 60,000 cases were pending. This number decreased to around 55,000 by March 2025. However, recent data reveals that the backlog has surged back to 57,153 cases.
Addressing a judicial reform event in Islamabad, Chief Justice Afridi stressed the urgency of resolving cases within prescribed timelines. He outlined ongoing initiatives to establish Model Criminal Trial Courts, which aim to expedite hearings and reduce case delays.
Chief Justice Afridi also highlighted efforts to train judicial officers in the use of artificial intelligence to improve judicial efficiency and case management. He expressed his vision for a judiciary where litigants approach courts with confidence, assured of impartial and timely justice.
Reaffirming his commitment, Afridi emphasized his support for honest, independent, and impartial judicial officers. Under his leadership, the Supreme Court held its fifth interactive session on judicial reforms, attended by court officials, experts, and representatives from the Judicial Academy and legal institutions.
The session’s communiqué stated that out of 89 proposed reform measures, 26 have been completed, 44 are underway, and 14 are slated to begin soon. The Chief Justice expressed concern over delays in case categorization and screening processes.
While previous reform efforts contributed to reducing the backlog, the recent increase underscores ongoing challenges in ensuring swift dispensation of justice in Pakistan’s highest court.
