SC backlog drops after a decade

Pending cases fall to 56,169 as reforms boost efficiency

ISLAMABAD:

For the first time in nearly a decade, the Supreme Court has reported a decline in pending cases, marking a significant turnaround in judicial efficiency.

According to a statement issued by the top court on Friday, the total number of pending cases, which stood at 60,446 at the start of last year, dropped to 56,169 by October this year.

The court noted that for almost ten years, the backlog of cases had been rising steadily, from 25,686 in 2015 to a record high of more than 60,000 by early 2024.

The consistent increase had placed growing pressure on the justice system, delaying timely verdicts and eroding public confidence in the judiciary.

Recognising the gravity of the situation, Chief Justice of Pakistan, upon assuming office in October 2024, made it a top priority to reduce the caseload and transform the apex court into a people-centric and technology-empowered institution.

The statement said a comprehensive review was conducted to identify the root causes behind the persistent backlog.

The study highlighted three main challenges: weak case management and coordination, reliance on outdated manual procedures and limited use of technology for monitoring and administration.

In response, the chief justice launched a Judicial Reform Action Plan, aimed at improving institutional performance, modernising court operations, enhancing transparency and accessibility and aligning the system with the public's needs.

Under the reform agenda, several groundbreaking measures were introduced. The court implemented digital filing, online case tracking and an electronic issuance of certified copies, allowing immediate access to information and significantly reducing procedural delays.

Moreover, coordination between registries and benches was strengthened, while data-driven administrative tools were adopted to ensure better decision-making and efficient use of judicial resources.

The statement said that the reforms have made the court's processes more efficient and accessible, adding that the impact has been both visible and encouraging.

For the first time in ten years, the trend of rising pending cases has reversed. The number of cases fell from 60,446 at the beginning of 2024 to 56,169 by October 2025, a milestone that reflects growing public confidence and a more effective, transparent, and equitable justice system.

The court reaffirmed its commitment to deepening the reform agenda to consolidate this progress.

It said that the SC continues to advance its vision of a people-centred and technology-driven justice system that provides accessible, honest and swift justice to every citizen of Pakistan.