Judiciary committed to expeditious, fair adjudication of labour disputes: CJP

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Yahya Afridi on Thursday reiterated judiciary commitment to ensuring accessible, expeditious and fair adjudication of labour disputes

On the occasion of International Labour Day observed throughout the globe, the chief justice in his message said that it is imperative that judicial forums dealing with labour and employment matters remain vigilant to the socio-economic realities faced by the working class.

“Let this day strengthen our collective resolve to sharpen institutional mechanisms that promote decent work, eliminate forced and child labour, ensure workplace safety and uphold the inherent dignity of all forms of labour,” the CJP said.

The chief justice further said, ‘It is through such commitment that we can give true meaning to the aspirations of our forefathers embodying in the shape of constitutional promise of a just and egalitarian society.”

For us in the judiciary, it is a solemn occasion to pay tribute to the resilience, dedication and sacrifices of working men and women whose contributions is the bedrock of our national development and economic progress,” the CJP maintained.

Furthermore, the chief justice said that it also serves as a powerful reminder of the state’s constitutional commitment to social justice, equity and the protection of labour rights.

The chief justice said that the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan embodies the right to dignity, fair remuneration and just and humane conditions of work as fundamental principles of policy.

“These rights are not merely aspirational — but are enforceable legal and moral obligations for the State”, the CJP said adding that the judiciary, as guardian of the Constitution and arbiter of justice, bears a profound responsibility to ensure that these guarantees are realised in both letter and spirit.

The chief justice further said that the courts have historically played a pivotal role in advancing the cause of labour by safeguarding workers’ rights, upholding the principles of decent work environment and reinforcing the balance of power between employer and employee.

“From addressing exploitative practices to interpreting protective labour legislation, the judiciary has strived to act as a bulwark against discrimination, coercion and inequality at the workplace”, the CJP said.