PHC CJ wants ‘proper security’ for judges

PESHAWAR: Chief Justice of Peshawar High Court, Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim, on Friday expressed displeasure over the lack of security for judicial officers and said all judges must be provided adequate security highlighting instances where security is withdrawn when judges pass decisions against the police.

During a hearing on a petition filed by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Bar Council concerning the province’s law and order, the chief justice said that all judges must be provided proper security.

The bench was hearing a petition filed by Vice Chairman of the KP Bar Council, Sadiq Ali Momand.

Justice Ejaz Anwar, a member of the two-judge bench, also raised concerns over the lack of proper security for judges.

He remarked that ministers and officials had surplus vehicles parked at their homes, but there were no vehicles available for judges, adding that the issue of security for judges required immediate attention, particularly in the southern districts where courts remain closed, and lawyers were protesting.

The petition demanded enhanced security for courts, judges, and judicial officers amid deteriorating law and order in the province.

The court criticized the lack of a systematic approach to judges’ security.

The chief justice pointed out that deputy commissioners and assistant commissioners received security while judges lacked protection.

The additional advocate general informed the court that standard operating procedures (SOPs) for judges’ security had been devised.

A representative from the Home Department told the bench that police were currently engaged in anti-polio vaccination campaigns, which limited their availability for other duties.

Justice Ejaz Anwar suggested creating a dedicated force for anti-polio campaigns to free up police resources for other critical tasks.

The court discussed the need for bulletproof vehicles for judges operating in high-risk areas, with the petitioner suggesting that the judiciary should be equipped with such resources.

The chief justice said that the high court currently possessed only one bulletproof vehicle, which could be handed over to the government if deemed necessary.

The case hearing was adjourned until December 18, with the court directing officials to discuss the new security SOPs and provide updates at the next hearing.