Peshawar: In response to the worsening security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court, Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim, has announced the suspension of judicial operations in two districts.
Citing serious security risks, Chief Justice Ibrahim stressed the need for stronger collaboration between the judiciary and law enforcement to protect court staff, legal professionals, and the public.
Recognizing the sacrifices made by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police, which has lost over 20,000 officers to violent attacks, Chief Justice Ibrahim underscored the importance of addressing the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with a unified strategy to safeguard those working in the justice system.
“These officers are also sons, brothers, and family members who risk their lives daily for public safety,” he said. His remarks highlight the urgency of a reliable security framework in the region.To strengthen security for courtrooms, judges, and barrooms, Chief Justice Ibrahim has ordered an official report on the measures taken so far.
He also instructed both provincial and federal authorities to submit comments on current and future security plans. This directive follows a petition from the Bar Council, which called for enhanced measures in response to the escalating security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
During a hearing on the petition, Advocate General Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Shah Faisal Uthmankhel informed the court about the steps taken, including meetings held in response to judicial orders.
Additional Chief Secretary Abid Majid provided details of two recent meetings with federal officials aimed at coordinating security efforts. Despite these developments, the court insisted on specific, actionable plans to address security issues in the province.
Additional Attorney General Sanaullah proposed establishing a committee that includes judicial officers and Bar Council representatives to oversee and address key security concerns. The court supported this proposal and directed officials to submit a written response with detailed updates.
Chief Justice Ibrahim further instructed federal representatives to ensure timely provision of essential security equipment to provincial authorities, stressing that both federal and provincial governments share responsibility for tackling the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. “Unified action between federal and provincial authorities is critical for effective security,” he stated.
The court has set a November 14 deadline for both federal and provincial governments to submit reports on the actions taken to address the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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