LHC CJ orders 2-month deadline for long-pending trials

On the directions of Chief Justice Aalia Neelum, letters have been issued to the Sessions Judges of 28 districts across Punjab, directing them

Chief Justice Lahore High Court (LHC) Justice Aalia Neelum has taken a major step to expedite the trials of accused persons who have remained in custody for more than three years, directing that their cases be decided within two months.

On the directions of Chief Justice Aalia Neelum, letters have been issued to the Sessions Judges of 28 districts across Punjab, directing them to ensure the speedy disposal of cases involving under-trial prisoners who have been in detention for more than three years.

The Sessions Judges have been instructed to place such cases on a fast-track basis and hear them on a priority basis so that decisions are delivered within the stipulated period of two months.

The Chief Justice directed that all Sessions Judges in Punjab would be bound to ensure the disposal of these cases within the prescribed timeframe.

The district judiciary has also been directed to accelerate proceedings in cases involving long-incarcerated under-trial accused and avoid unnecessary adjournments that could further prolong their detention.

The Lahore High Court has also sought implementation reports regarding cases in which accused persons have remained behind bars for more than three years, in order to monitor progress and ensure compliance with the directions.

The initiative aims to facilitate the timely provision of justice to prisoners whose trials have remained pending for prolonged periods. The directions are also intended to address unnecessary delays in criminal proceedings and reduce the backlog of long-pending cases.

The Chief Justice’s directive underscores the need for the district judiciary to prioritize cases involving under-trial prisoners and ensure that prolonged detention does not continue merely because of delays in the disposal of their trials.

The Sessions Courts across Punjab have accordingly been asked to take immediate measures to speed up proceedings and submit reports regarding compliance with the Lahore High Court’s directions.