AJK CJ voices solidarity with IIOJK people

Azad Jammu and Kashmir Supreme Court (AJKSC) Chief Justice Raja Saeed Akram Khan on Thursday expressed solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) for their unparalleled sacrifices in the struggle for self-determination.

The chief justice was addressing the opening ceremony of AJKSC golden jubilee celebrations in Muzaffarabad on Thursday.

Marking 50 years since the apex court's establishment in 1975, Chief Justice Akram extended felicitations to the people of the state as well as past and present judges, lawyers, and citizens from all walks of life. He also paid tribute to former chief justices and judges, both deceased and living, who laid the foundations of a progressive and efficient justice system in AJK.

In a strong message of solidarity, the chief justice reaffirmed the unwavering support of the people of Azad Kashmir and Pakistan for the oppressed people of IIOJK, condemning India's illegal occupation and unconstitutional actions. He paid tribute to the sacrifices of Kashmiri martyrs and expressed hope that the dawn of freedom would soon rise over the occupied region.

The chief justice revealed that the original Golden Jubilee celebration, scheduled for May 2025 with confirmed participation of Pakistan's Chief Justice Yahya Afridi and other senior judges from across the country, had to be postponed following the night of May 6-7, when civilian areas and mosques were targeted, resulting in the tragic loss of women, children, and elderly citizens.

He praised the Pakistan Armed Forces for their swift and robust response, particularly commending the Pakistan Air Force and cyber warriors for their historic defence. Paying homage to Martyr Major Adnan, he lauded the courage and sacrifices of Pakistan's soldiers.

Reflecting on the judiciary's evolution, Chief Justice Akram said the AJK Supreme Court has weathered both challenges and milestones to emerge as a beacon of justice. He noted that no case predating 2024 is currently pending before the court — a record unmatched in the region.

The chief justice emphasized that justice delayed is justice denied, pointing to delays in implementation of court decisions and systemic inefficiencies such as adjournments, absentee lawyers, and bureaucratic bottlenecks. He called for collective accountability and reform, including from judges, lawyers, and court staff.

The chief justice also credited the Islamic Ideology Council, under his leadership, with reviewing and recommending amendments to bring laws in line with Islamic principles.

He praised the social harmony in AJK, citing low crime rates, sectarian unity, and transparent governance as hallmarks of the region's societal model. He urged all institutions—judiciary, executive, and legislature—to stay within their constitutional limits while working towards a welfare state based on rule of law, merit and justice.