Yahya Afridi Addresses the Judicial Conference in the Apex Court in Islamabad

On Monday, Chief Justice of Pakistan, Yahya Afridi, addressed a Judicial Conference in the Apex Court in Islamabad.

Core part of the discussion “Technology and AI”: 

Justice Afridi talked about the purpose of the Judicial Conference that was initiated in 1970. He said that the conference was meant to discuss the issues and shed light on the opportunities to improve its performance. He added that when he took the oath as a CJP, he also felt that there was a need for reforms, based on five principles.

He said, “We prioritised service delivery through technology, transparency in cases, and a legal framework.” CJP also said that the eight sections of the apex court strive for speedy justice.

He also informed that there were six meetings already held for the reforms in the Supreme Court so that the judicial process can go smoothly. He added that various plans were discussed during these meetings. He majorly stated that digital case-filing and case-tracking were also discussed.

Afridi said, “Everyone speaks of technology and artificial intelligence.” He said that through technology, the judicial procedures will be sped up and the projects will be finished in a short duration. He gave an instance, like 61,000 files will be digitally screened, and the project will be done within 6 months.

CJP declared, “Cases will be fixed using artificial intelligence.” He also said that the use of AI completely in the judicial proceedings may take time because the judiciary is still not ready to use AI in its judicial matters. That is why the complete use of AI will start once the digital screening of the project is completed. 

Yahya Afridi stated, “We have always worked for the supremacy of the law.” He also informed that the decision to formulate a facilitation centre has been made. He said the centre will carry out its operation on October 1. He said that this centre will be useful as it will assist in giving thorough details regarding cases.

The judge also welcomed suggestions and stressed that rules cannot be made within a single day. Although it will take time and the suggestions will be put forward to the Proposal Committee, which will then be considered as recommendations.

Discussion on security protocols and other judicial matters:

The CJP also talked about the security provided to him and the other judges. He said that the new reforms also added that the security protocols will be reduced. He said, “I used to have nine security vehicles with me, so I said that this much security was not needed inside the Red Zone, as it has the court and residences.” He also added that now he has only two security vehicles.

He gave the reason for lessening the security protocol to the Judges in the Red Zone within Islamabad. He said that within the Red Zone, there is no need for extra security protocol for the Judges. Though the judges may need it when going outside of Islamabad.

While asked about the Judge’s leave decision, he clearly stated, “The matter of judges’ leaves is clearly stated in the Supreme Court Rules. No judge needs permission [for leave] during judicial holidays, but other than that, it is required to inform the court about it.”

The Chief Justice of Pakistan also inaugurated a “Media Station” in the Supreme Court. He told the media persons that it is important to keep a check on every matter for fair dealing. That is why this station was made. 

He said, “You people are necessary for the system because you keep everyone in check. Please keep us in check, but it should be healthy.”