Peshawar — Chief Justice Peshawar High Court, Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim, has voiced serious concerns regarding inadequate security for judges, courts and courtrooms amid a surge in violent incidents.
Speaking during a hearing on a petition addressing the need for improved security in judicial complexes, judges’ chambers, and bar rooms, Justice Ibrahim called on both provincial and federal authorities to prioritize the safety of legal personnel, who are increasingly vulnerable.The petition, submitted by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Bar Council, outlines the escalating security challenges faced by court staff and the judiciary in the province.
Vice Chairman of the Bar Council, Sadiq Ali Mohmand, emphasized the urgency of government intervention, citing recent cases where individuals were fatally injured in court shootings, leading to a heightened sense of fear among lawyers and judges. He requested court-directed actions to enhance safety measures across all judicial facilities.
Chief Justice Peshawar High Court highlighted a prior court mandate requiring the provincial government to address six critical questions regarding current security protocols for judicial premises. These questions include the adequacy of modern security equipment available to law enforcement, as well as the enforcement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
During the session, Advocate General Shah Faisal Uthman Khail requested additional time to compile a detailed response, assuring that efforts are underway to enhance security provisions.The Chief Justice Peshawar High Court emphasized the necessity of federal government involvement, remarking that the legal community should not be expected to arm themselves for personal safety.
“The repeated incidents of violence within our courts create an unacceptable sense of insecurity,” he stated, underscoring the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring the protection of court personnel.The petition also highlighted the challenges faced by lawyers due to the relocation of courts from terrorism-affected areas, such as Tank and Waziristan, to Dera Ismail Khan.
The hearing has been adjourned until October 30, with instructions for a comprehensive security report from the provincial government and input from the federal government.
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