SC panel finalises draft for optimising case management

ISLAMABAD: In a historic step toward enhancing transparency, efficiency and overall effectiveness in judicial proceedings, a committee of the Supreme Court has formulated a comprehensive draft of the Supreme Court Rules, 2025 that focuses on optimising case management through digital platforms and expediting administrative tasks through automation.

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi had constituted the committee of four judges—Justice Shahid Waheed, Justice Irfan Saadat Khan, Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi—to conduct a thorough review of the Supreme Court Rules, 1980.

Initially, the committee invited proposals from the judges, office of the Supreme Court, bar councils, and bar associations.

Recognising the rapidly evolving legal landscape and the imperative for streamlined procedures to meet modern-day requirements, the committee engaged in a rigorous process of research, consultation and dialogue over multiple brainstorming sessions.

During these meetings, the committee examined the proposals, best practices and structural gaps within the existing rules. It developed forward-looking recommendations aimed at enabling the Supreme Court of Pakistan to embrace automation and digitalisation for its day-to-day operations.

This newly formulated draft was formally handed over to the Supreme Court Registrar for presentation to the CJP and the judges for further review and feedback. Once this consultative stage is complete, the proposal would be placed before the Full Court for final approval.