ISLAMABAD:
For the first time in nearly a decade, the Supreme Court has reported a decline in pending cases, marking a significant shift in judicial efficiency.
According to a statement issued by the high court on Friday, the total number of pending cases, which stood at 60,446 early last year, came down to 56,169 in October this year.
The court noted that for almost ten years, the backlog of cases had increased steadily, from 25,686 in 2015 to a record of more than 60,000 in early 2024.
The steady rise had put increasing pressure on the judicial system, delaying timely verdicts and eroding public confidence in the judiciary.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the Chief Justice of Pakistan, upon assuming office in October 2024, made it a top priority to reduce the caseload and transform the apex court into a people-centric and technology-enhanced institution.
The statement said a thorough review was carried out to identify the root causes behind the persistent delay.
The study highlighted three main challenges: poor case coordination and management, reliance on outdated manual procedures, and limited use of technology for tracking and administration.
In response, the Chief Justice launched a Judicial Reform Action Plan, aimed at improving institutional performance, modernizing judicial operations, improving transparency and accessibility, and aligning the system with the needs of the public.
Within the framework of the reform program, several innovative measures were introduced. The court implemented digital filing, online case tracking, and electronic issuance of certified copies, allowing immediate access to information and significantly reducing procedural delays.
Additionally, coordination between registries and courts was strengthened, while data-based administrative tools were adopted to ensure better decision-making and efficient use of judicial resources.
The statement says the reforms have made court processes more efficient and accessible, adding that the impact has been visible and encouraging.
For the first time in ten years, the trend of increasing pending cases has reversed. The number of cases fell from 60,446 at the beginning of 2024 to 56,169 in October 2025, a milestone that reflects growing public trust and a more effective, transparent and equitable justice system.
The court reaffirmed its commitment to deepen the reform agenda to consolidate this progress.
He said the SC continues to advance its vision of a people-centric and technology-driven justice system that provides accessible, honest and speedy justice to all citizens of Pakistan.
