It is only those who have a case before the court who can gain some understanding of elementary procedures.
ISLAMABAD: Our justice system is confronted with numerous problems but three core issues need special mention if we are to have an effective delivery of justice in the country. First, it is neither accessible nor responsive to the needs of the poor litigant public. Second, it is rife with corruption and abuse of power at several levels. And third, it suffers because of inadequate funding and this leads to deficiencies in the administration of justice.
In addition to this, there is a lack of proper training of judicial officers. This is also quite a problem. I have also noticed that the court administration and case management are weak. And to make matters worse, the caseload of the average judge appears to have increased dramatically in recent years. Access to legal information is limited; courts are not automatically sent the official gazettes which publish new laws, libraries are just about non-existent and most court decisions are not published.
Although the general public understands that the courts are the appropriate forums for dispute resolution, it is only those who have a case before the court who can gain some understanding of elementary procedures. Lastly, the judges’ poor working conditions threaten their independence, reduce their efficiency and constitute incentives for corruption.
Hence, there is clear need for the government to take concrete steps so that justice can be efficient and effective — especially in a country whose citizens badly need it.
Hashim Abro
Published in The Express Tribune, August 1st, 2014.
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