Transparency in Legal Proceedings: A Step Forward from the Islamabad High Court
In a recent development that highlights the importance of transparency in legal proceedings, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed the Practice and Procedure Rules to be uploaded to the IHC official website within 48 hours. This decision came during the hearing of a PTCL-related case, where it was revealed that even legal professionals had limited access to these crucial rules.
Imagine a lawyer in court, scrambling to obtain the rules governing the very proceedings they are part of. That’s exactly what happened when one counsel expressed ignorance about the Practice and Procedure Rules, indicating he was trying to obtain them through formal channels. Justice Kayani’s response was telling: "I am a judge and I have not received them… so how could you?"
This raises an important point about how legal processes should operate. Clear and accessible guidelines are vital, not just for judges and lawyers, but for the public as well. If the judges themselves are unaware of the rules that govern them, how can the system function efficiently?
Justice Kayani noted that while the full court had approved these rules, they remained undisclosed—essentially classified as a "secret document." He emphasized that it should not take up to three months for a legal professional to obtain necessary documents. This kind of delay compromises the fairness and efficiency that our legal system strives for.
To ensure compliance, the judge warned that if the directive to publish the rules wasn’t followed, he might summon the IHC registrar for accountability. It’s a strong reminder that in a democracy, transparency is key. Access to information shouldn’t be a privilege; it should be a right for everyone involved in the justice system.
As Justice Kayani moved forward with the hearings, he implied that non-compliance could lead to criminal proceedings. This assertive stance signals a commitment to uphold the rule of law, reinforcing the notion that every participant in the legal system should have equal access to information.
This recent order from the Islamabad High Court not only enhances transparency but also sets a precedent for other judicial bodies in Pakistan and beyond. Ensuring that rules and procedures are readily available creates a more equitable legal landscape where everyone— from judges to citizens—can understand their rights and obligations.
If you’re interested in staying informed about such developments or want to engage further with topics that matter, check out Pro21st, where we strive to bring insightful content and foster meaningful dialogue. Let’s continue the conversation!
At Pro21st, we believe in sharing updates that matter.
Stay connected for more real conversations, fresh insights, and 21st-century perspectives.
