PTBP Web Desk
Chief Justice Yahya Afridi has recently underscored the need for dedicated benches specifically for the swift resolution of tax-related cases. This initiative was highlighted during his presiding over two crucial meetings at the Supreme Court in Islamabad on Thursday.
The first meeting, attended by luminaries like Justice Ayesha A Malik, Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan, and key administrative figures including the Supreme Court Registrar Muhammad Salim Khan and development expert Sher Shah, was aimed at reviewing the ongoing judicial reforms. The focus was multifaceted:
The Chief Justice acknowledged the strides made in these reform areas. He commended the team’s dedication, offering further suggestions to refine these initiatives. This meeting not only reflected on past achievements but also set the stage for future enhancements in judicial service delivery.
The second meeting turned its focus to one of the perennial bottlenecks in judicial proceedings – tax cases. With representatives from the tax bar and the legal team from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), the discussions were intense and targeted:
Chief Justice Afridi announced plans to establish specialized benches for tax cases. This decision aims to leverage expertise and focus, thereby reducing the backlog and speeding up case resolutions.
There was a strong emphasis on minimizing unnecessary delays through adjournments, which often prolong the litigation process, affecting both the government and taxpayers adversely.
The Chief Justice stressed the importance of these measures in not only clearing the backlog but also in setting a precedent for efficient judicial handling of economic matters. The bar representatives welcomed this initiative, expressing their commitment to cooperate fully in this endeavor.
These meetings are indicative of a broader commitment by the Supreme Court to not only uphold the law but to do so in a manner that is transparent, efficient, and accountable. By focusing on tax cases, the judiciary acknowledges the critical role these resolutions play in the economy, affecting everything from government revenue to business operations.
Speedy resolution of tax disputes can lead to increased fiscal clarity for both the government and businesses, potentially boosting investment and economic activity.
By making judicial processes more efficient and accessible, public trust in the judiciary is likely to strengthen, which is crucial for the health of democracy.
The establishment of specialized benches could serve as a model for other areas of law where case backlogs are significant.
