The Supreme Court has released its second quarterly performance report, covering the period from December 17, 2023, to March 31, 2024.
During this period, approximately 4,000 cases were settled, despite the overall case load increasing by 1,453. The report reveals that 5,427 new cases were registered, while 3,974 cases were disposed of within the quarter. Although a significant number of cases were resolved, the backlog continued to grow.
In a move aimed at enhancing transparency and public engagement, the Supreme Court live-streamed proceedings 30 times during this quarter.
The report underscores the rigorous standards for judicial accountability, emphasizing that judges cannot evade accountability by resigning. It also notes the reinstatement of Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui’s right to a fair trial.
Additionally, the report highlights several major judicial decisions from this period. The Supreme Court reviewed the Zulfikar Ali Bhutto reference, adjusted lifetime disqualification rulings, and upheld the special court’s decision against former president Pervez Musharraf. The court also established that a wife’s consent is necessary for a divorce to be legally valid.
An intriguing note from the report mentions the presence of a pair of peacocks at the chief justice’s official residence. These white peacocks required veterinary care, and after treatment, they were transferred to wildlife authorities.
