SC issues new policies governing judges’ security, protocols

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan (SC) has released the details of multiple policy changes and issued official orders, from October 26, 2024 to August 12, 2025. These details shed light on the new applicable administrative, procedural, and operational policies.

FUNERAL PROTOCOL FOR FORMER JUDGES

A new policy issued on January 9, 2025, outlines the protocol for the death of former judges. A designated focal person from the Court will assist with funeral arrangements. The Chief Justice and other judges will lay a wreath at the deceased judge’s tomb.

Also read: SC rejects stay order plea against auction of Bahria Town properties

EARLY HEARING POLICY

Effective February 22, 2025, a new policy prioritizes bail, family, and election cases for early hearing. In urgent matters, lawyers will not need to submit early hearing applications. For other cases, requests must include specific reasons.

VEHICLE USAGE CHARGES REVISED

An order dated March 6, 2025, revised per-kilometer rates for private use of government vehicles. The new rates are as follows:

• Motorcycles: Rs 9 (previously Rs 6)
• Cars and Jeeps: Rs 18 (previously Rs 12)
• Vans and Station Wagons: Rs 24 (previously Rs 16)
• Air-conditioned Coasters: Rs 72 (previously Rs 48)
• Non-Air-conditioned Coasters: Rs 48 (previously Rs 32)

PURCHASE AND MAINTENANCE COMMITTEE FORMED

A new Purchase and Maintenance Committee was constituted on May 17, 2025. It will manage maintenance for Supreme Court buildings and judges’ residences and can recommend repair works costing up to Rs 500,000.

JUDGMENTS PUBLISHING POLICY

On May 19, 2025, the Supreme Court decided that minority opinions will be published on its website alongside majority judgments.

DAY CARE CENTER SOPS

New guidelines issued on May 19, 2025, limit admission to children aged up to four years at the Supreme Court’s day care facility.

UNIVERSITY DELEGATION VISITS

An order dated May 22, 2025, restricts Court visits to students in their final or second-last academic year. All visiting students must follow a designated dress code.

PROTOCOL AND FACILITIES FOR JUDGES

On July 7, 2025, the Supreme Court issued SOPs to increase protocol services for judges. Staff will remain available round the clock. Judges will receive support for memberships at medical clinics and clubs, and assistance with travel, accommodation, and transport for their families. Work related to official documentation, such as with NADRA and passport offices, will be prioritized.

GUEST HOUSE RESERVATION POLICY

Also on July 7, 2025, a new policy prioritized judges and their families for guest house reservations. Private visits will be limited to a four-day stay.

VEHICLE POLICY FOR JUDGES

A policy notified on June 17, 2025, permits each judge to use two government vehicles (up to 1800cc) – a primary car and a family car – both maintained by the government. Judges will be provided with two drivers and may request a third vehicle in urgent cases. A security escort vehicle and trained gunman from the police will also be assigned.

RETIRED JUDGES’ VEHICLE POLICY

Retired judges may retain their primary car for one month post-retirement and purchase it at a reduced rate. They are eligible for airport pick-up and drop services. If a primary car was not purchased before retirement, they may buy a new one at a depreciated price. Subject to availability, a government vehicle may be requested in Islamabad or provincial capitals.

Also read: Supreme Court hikes case fees by up to 4,900 per cent

FOREIGN LEAVE RULES AMENDED

On July 29, 2025, the Supreme Court amended the rules for judges’ foreign leave. Judges may now travel privately abroad only during summer and winter vacations. The Chief Justice has been granted authority to cancel or limit any previously approved leave.