Chief Justice notes delay in writing judgment by Justice Athar Minallah

Islamabad: Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Faiz Isa issued an additional note in a case related to the Federal Excise Act 2005 dispute, addressing the delay in issuing a decision by Justice Athar Minallah.
In his note, Chief Justice Faiz Isa emphasized the importance of timely decisions in accordance with good practice and the law, urging for immediate issuance of the judgment after completing the hearing, which concluded on December 6, 2023. Despite the case being forwarded to Justice Athar Minallah on that date, the judgment was delayed by six months, totaling 223 valuable days.
Chief Justice Faiz Isa mentioned that despite receiving the case referral on July 18, he promptly wrote the note on July 19. He underscored that judges, like officials in other institutions, are accountable, and delivering judgments promptly within a reasonable timeframe is essential to ensuring justice. He highlighted that undue delays undermine the delivery of justice.
The issue pertains to Justice Athar Minallah’s handling of the case, prompting Chief Justice Faiz Isa to stress the importance of adhering to judicial responsibilities without neglecting the duty to promptly resolve cases, akin to other branches of government.
This note from the Chief Justice underscores ongoing concerns regarding judicial efficiency and accountability within Pakistan’s legal system.