SJC rejects proposal to publicise names of judges facing complaints

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, concluded its meeting on Saturday after reviewing the council’s procedural rules and examining complaints against judges, sources familiar with the proceedings revealed.

During the session, the council reportedly discussed proposed amendments to its regulations, including a controversial suggestion to publicly disclose the names of judges against whom complaints had been resolved. However, sources confirmed that the SJC ultimately rejected this proposal, maintaining its current practice of keeping such names confidential. Justices Mansoor Ali Shah, Muneeb Akhtar, Aalia Neelam, and Jamal Khan Mandokhail were in attendance.

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The meeting also addressed mechanisms for handling complaints against superior court judges. While no official statement was released, insiders revealed that the council emphasized the need for procedural efficiency while protecting judges’ reputations during inquiries.

The SJC – responsible for disciplinary matters involving judges of the superior judiciary – has historically operated with discretion. The decision signals continuity in this approach despite growing calls for greater transparency in judicial oversight processes.

During the meeting, the council approved the draft of the SJC Service Rules 2025 while amendments to the code of conduct were also discussed, with the council emphasising the need for further legal review. Additionally, further consultations will be conducted on the inquiry procedures. The SJC examined 24 complaints filed under Article 209, disposing of 19 unanimously and deferring 5 for further consideration.