Supreme Court unveils major judicial reforms

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has released a report outlining judicial and institutional reforms introduced between November 2024 and September 2026. Titled Journey Through Reform and Innovation 2026, the document details efforts to improve court performance, reduce pending cases and strengthen public access to justice.

The report highlights the implementation of an 86-point Reform Action Plan designed to improve the functioning of the judicial system. Dedicated working groups, a structured governance framework and regular progress reviews were established to oversee the reforms and assess their effectiveness.

According to the report, the reform process has led to progress in several areas of judicial administration. These include increased case disposals, greater attention to long-pending cases and the expansion of digital services. The Supreme Court has also emphasised data-based performance monitoring to improve institutional efficiency and support informed decision-making.

The report further outlines initiatives undertaken through the National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee to improve the delivery of justice nationwide. Key measures include the time-bound disposal of priority cases, the establishment of Model Trial Courts and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in judicial processes. Work on judicial analytics has also been highlighted as part of efforts to strengthen performance assessment.

Modernising court procedures and making judicial services more accessible are other major areas covered in the document. The initiatives aim to facilitate litigants, improve transparency and strengthen cooperation among judicial institutions.

The report also records efforts to expand international judicial cooperation and develop a more responsive justice system. These measures are intended to make court services more accessible and improve the overall experience of people seeking legal remedies.

The publication provides an overview of the Supreme Court’s reform efforts during the reporting period. While documenting progress in case management, digital transformation and institutional accountability, it also highlights the continuing need to improve the efficiency, accessibility and predictability of justice delivery in Pakistan.