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CJ Siddiqui Advocates Mediation for Efficient Case Resolution
Chief Justice Shafi Siddiqui calls for embracing mediation to reduce case backlogs at SHC. Plans announced for more judges, modern facilities, and strengthening the Larkana Circuit!
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-20
CJ Siddiqui Advocates Mediation for Efficient Case Resolution

Chief Justice Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui of the Sindh High Court (SHC) emphasized the importance of mediation as a practical solution to reduce the growing backlog of cases during a reception hosted in his honor by the Sindh High Court Bar Association (SHCBA) on Thursday. The event coincided with the inauguration of the accounts and record branch at the Larkana Circuit Building.

CJ Siddiqui announced the establishment of a mediation hall within the Larkana circuit building and encouraged the legal fraternity to promote dispute resolution through mediation instead of traditional litigation. "Mediation is a globally recognized practice that not only eases court workloads but also ensures quicker resolutions for litigants," the chief justice stated.

He suggested that cases related to marital disputes, sibling disagreements, child custody, or partnerships could be effectively resolved through mediation.

Expansion of Judges and Facilities

During the event, SHCBA President Ghulam Dastagir Shahani proposed an increase in the number of judges at the Larkana Circuit. CJ Siddiqui welcomed the suggestion and revealed plans to appoint four judges, surpassing the requested three. He elaborated on plans to create one division bench and two single-member benches to manage civil and criminal cases regularly.

Additionally, the chief justice assured that vacant seats in the anti-corruption and anti-terrorism courts would be filled promptly after the winter vacation or his return to Karachi. He acknowledged Larkana's contribution to the judiciary, expressing pride in the harmonious and dedicated legal community in the region.

“This land has produced some of the finest judges, and I am committed to enhancing the judiciary’s strength here,” he said, adding that the SHC aims to increase its judges to a total of 40.

Promised Modern Facilities

CJ Siddiqui pledged to provide a modern consultation hall, a canteen, and a car parking area at the Larkana Circuit Building if space could be allocated. He also announced that advocates would soon have access to online legal resources through a library subscription to PLD, enabling more efficient research.

He further mentioned that ongoing civil works for a court in Dokri would be completed within a month.

Traditional Honor

The reception was attended by SHC Justices Muhammed Saleem Jessar, Shamsuddin Abbasi, Zulfikar Sangi, and other notable figures from the judiciary and legal fraternity. SHCBA President Shahani presented traditional gifts of Ajrak and Topi to the chief justice and other judges, a gesture symbolizing Sindhi hospitality.

The chief justice’s remarks underscored his personal connection to Larkana. “This land is mine, and I shall give time to it,” he remarked, reflecting on his tenure as a judge and his deep respect for the local bar association.

Conclusion

The event highlighted significant steps toward strengthening the judiciary in Larkana, with a focus on modernizing facilities and fostering effective dispute resolution mechanisms. CJ Siddiqui's vision emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and progress to serve justice more effectively.

 
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larkana

SindhHighCourt

JudicialReforms

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