The Supreme Court of Pakistan has enforced the Supreme Court Rules 2025, replacing regulations that had been in effect since 1980, in a move to modernise judicial processes, incorporate digital technology, and improve public access to justice. Framed under Article 191 of the Constitution, the rules took immediate effect following approval by the full court. A dedicated committee comprising Justice Shahid Waheed, Justice Irfan Saadat Khan, Justice Naeem Akhter Afghan, and Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi prepared the rules after holding consultations with judges, the Pakistan Bar Council, the Supreme Court Bar Association, and other legal bodies.
The updated rules bring multiple changes aimed at streamlining court operations. Key provisions include electronic filing of petitions and paper books, digital issuance of notices and orders, video-link hearings, and online access to case records. The framework also revises court fees, enhances legal aid facilities, extends time limits for appeals and reviews, and formally establishes constitutional benches. Additional measures address improved procedures for summoning lower court records, enable intra-court appeals under Article 184(3), impose penalties for frivolous litigation, and grant expanded administrative powers to the registrar. Advocates now have the option to wear either a sherwani or a short black coat, with gowns no longer mandatory.
According to the court, these reforms represent a transformative vision for delivering timely justice, minimising procedural rigidity, and aligning judicial practices with modern standards. The full text of the new rules is accessible on the Supreme Court’s official website, enabling lawyers and litigants to review the updated processes in detail.
The Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan (SCBAP), however, has disputed claims by the court that it was consulted on the introduction of the revised court fees. In a statement, SCBAP denied participation in any discussions or meetings on the subject and demanded that minutes of such meetings, if they occurred, be made public. The association expressed concern that the significant increase in court fees would obstruct affordable access to justice, undermining the constitutional principle of inexpensive legal recourse under Article 37(d). It also warned that the change could create barriers for both lawyers and litigants while potentially eroding public trust in the judicial system. Despite these objections, SCBAP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting reforms that strengthen the legal framework while advocating for policies that keep justice accessible and equitable.
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