One of the most serious issues facing our justice system today is delay. In many cases, justice is not denied because of bad intentions, it is denied because there simply isn’t enough time. When judges do not have sufficient time to properly hear cases, fair decisions become difficult, and justice suffers.
The Growing Burden on Judges
Let us take the example of Punjab.
Punjab has a population of over 120 million people. However, the number of judges currently working is far below what is required to handle such a massive population.
Although the approved strength of judges is higher, only about 35 judges are actively working in the Lahore High Court at present. This means that, on average, one judge is effectively responsible for cases related to approximately 3.5 to 3.6 million people.
From a human perspective, it is nearly impossible for one judge to fairly and efficiently handle the legal matters of millions of people.
Similar shortages exist in other provinces:
- In Balochistan, the number of judges is limited compared to the population.
- In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, only around 11 judges are working.
- The Sindh High Court also faces comparable capacity challenges.
Even if the total sanctioned number of judges appears sufficient on paper, it makes little difference if those positions remain vacant or unfilled.
Constitutional Framework
Under the Constitution of Pakistan, particularly Article 192, the structure and number of judges in a High Court are addressed.
Article 192 states that a High Court shall consist of a Chief Justice and such other judges as may be determined by law or fixed by the President.
In 2010, an amendment increased the number of judges in the Lahore High Court from 50 to 60. However, despite this increase on paper, the actual number of judges currently performing duties remains significantly lower.
This gap between approved strength and active judges contributes directly to delays in justice.
The Consequences of Judicial Shortage
Because of the limited number of judges:
- Cases are delayed for years.
- Appeals remain pending.
- Bail applications are not heard on time.
- Prisoners remain in jail awaiting hearings.
- Many litigants never see their turn come.
Courts typically function from 9:00 AM to 3:00 or 4:00 PM, with breaks included. Even with full dedication during working hours, the volume of pending cases far exceeds what can realistically be handled.
This leads to the painful reality often described as “justice delayed is justice denied.”
A Call for Reform
The purpose of raising this issue is not criticism, but awareness.
If amendments, notifications, or executive actions are required, they should focus on increasing the number of judges and ensuring that all sanctioned positions are filled. No system can deliver timely justice when one judge is effectively responsible for millions of citizens.
The Government of Pakistan must seriously consider judicial reforms aimed at:
- Increasing the number of judges.
- Filling vacant judicial positions promptly.
- Improving case management systems.
- Expanding court capacity to match population growth.
Justice is a fundamental right. A strong judicial system is the backbone of any democratic society. Without sufficient judges, even the best legal framework cannot deliver fair and timely outcomes.
Conclusion
A nation of millions cannot rely on a severely understaffed judiciary and expect swift justice. Structural reform is not optional, it is necessary.
If this discussion has helped you better understand the issue, you are encouraged to share your thoughts and contribute to the conversation about improving Pakistan’s justice system.