ISLAMABAD:A Full Court Reference was held at the Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday in honour of Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail on the occasion of laying down the robes of judicial office. The reference was attended by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi, Judges of the Supreme Court, Attorney General for Pakistan, Vice Chairman Pakistan Bar Council, President Supreme Court Bar Association, senior law officers and members of the legal fraternity.
Addressing the reference, the Chief Justice paid tribute to Justice Mandokhail's distinguished judicial career and unwavering commitment to the administration of justice. Recalling his professional journey from the Bar in Balochistan to the Supreme Court, His Lordship acknowledged his contributions to constitutional jurisprudence, judicial administration and institutional development, particularly his efforts to strengthen the district judiciary and judicial infrastructure during his tenure as Chief Justice of the High Court of Balochistan. He also appreciated Justice Mandokhail's thoughtful advice, candid counsel and steadfast support, observing that his presence had contributed significantly to the collegiality and harmony of the Court. His Lordship expressed gratitude for his distinguished services and extended his best wishes.
Emphasising that the Bench and Bar are integral to the administration of justice, the Chief Justice underscored the importance of maintaining harmony, mutual respect and constructive engagement within the legal fraternity. His Lordship reaffirmed his commitment to preserving harmony between the Bench and Bar and observed that transparent and uniform procedures had been institutionalised through comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, fairness and accountability in judicial administration. Highlighting the provision of free legal aid at various levels, His Lordship reiterated that no person should be deprived of legal representation merely because of financial constraints.
In his farewell address, Justice Mandokhail emphasised that judicial independence is a constitutional safeguard for the people rather than a privilege of Judges. He underscored that the judicial oath demands impartiality, integrity and unwavering adherence to the Constitution and law, without fear, favour or external influence. He observed that safeguarding judicial independence and fundamental rights requires the collective commitment of Parliament, the Executive, the Judiciary and the legal fraternity.
Reflecting on his judicial career, Justice Mandokhail reaffirmed his commitment to deciding cases in accordance with the Constitution, law and evidence, while ensuring fair hearings and equal treatment of litigants. He highlighted the importance of responsible media reporting, mutual respect among State institutions and the indispensable role of an independent Bar in upholding the rule of law.
Justice Mandokhail expressed gratitude to his family, colleagues, members of the Bar and Court staff for their support throughout his professional journey and reaffirmed his enduring commitment to the Constitution and the cause of justice.
Earlier, the Attorney General for Pakistan, Malik Mansoor Usman Awan, Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Bar Council, Pir Mohammad Masood Chishti, and President of the Supreme Court Bar Association, Syed Amjad Ali Shah, paid tribute to Justice Mandokhail's distinguished services to the judiciary and the legal profession.
The President of the Supreme Court Bar Association appreciated the Supreme Court's ongoing judicial reforms, particularly the digitisation of case records, e-filing, electronic certified copies, improved case fixation procedures and public facilitation initiatives, including the 1818 Legal Call Centre and Court-Annexed Mediation Centre. Emphasising the need to further strengthen case management, ensure timely fixation and minimise delays in case disposal, he underscored the indispensable role of the Bar in the administration of justice and assured its full cooperation in advancing reforms aimed at making the justice system more efficient, responsive, accessible and people-centred.