AJK CJ stresses mutual respect

Azad Jammu and Kashmir Chief Justice CJ Raja Saeed Akram Khan has stressed the need for mutual respect, trust and cooperation between the judiciary and the legal fraternity, saying close coordination is essential to uphold the rule of law, protect the dignity of the judiciary and ensure timely justice for the public.

Addressing a ceremony organised by the Central Bar Association CBA the chief justice urged lawyers to prepare their cases thoroughly and present clear, cogent arguments in accordance with legal requirements to make the judicial process more effective.

He said every stakeholder in the judicial system had specific responsibilities. Lawyers must represent their clients effectively by presenting comprehensive arguments based on relevant legal provisions, while courts must decide cases in accordance with the law and evidence.

The chief justice said that since assuming office his focus had remained on improving the judicial system and introducing institutional reforms. He also acknowledged the professional capabilities of his fellow judges, particularly Supreme Court Senior Judge Justice Raza Ali Khan who had previously served as advocate general and held positions in the Supreme Court Bar Association SCBA , High Court Bar Association HBA and Bar Council BC.

Justice Khan said lawyers played an important role in assisting judges through legal arguments and professional guidance. He described his longstanding association with the legal fraternity as a matter of honour and said he had consistently sought to promote mutual respect and cooperation between the bar and the bench.

Emphasising the role of young lawyers, he urged newly enrolled members of the profession to discharge their responsibilities with dedication, integrity and professionalism. He said their commitment would help strengthen the justice system and improve access to justice for the public.

Referring to the challenges people face in life, the chief justice observed that some decisions might appear difficult to accept, but could carry divine wisdom, adding that people should maintain their faith in Allah's decisions.