ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) has come out strongly against recent amendments to the Supreme Court Rules, 2025, arguing that the revisions—particularly a hike in court fees—erode citizens’ fundamental rights and make justice less accessible to vulnerable groups.
In a statement issued after a Saturday meeting chaired by PBC Executive Committee head Muhammad Yaseen Azad, the council said the amendments contradict Article 37(d) of the Constitution, which guarantees “inexpensive and expeditious justice.” The council criticized the Supreme Court for bypassing consultation with the legal community before implementing the changes.
Calling the move “disproportionately burdensome” for low-income litigants, the PBC demanded an immediate rollback of the fee increase.
Plan for All Parties Conference on Security and Economy
In a significant political move, the PBC announced plans to host an All Parties Conference (APC) in Islamabad on September 27. The meeting will bring together political leaders, bar councils, and legal associations to develop what the council called a “national strategy to counter terrorism and revive economic stability.”
Condemnation of Raids and Police Misconduct
The PBC also addressed what it described as a growing disregard for due process and legal safeguards by law enforcement agencies.
The council condemned a raid carried out by Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) personnel and plainclothes men on the home of former judge Zahoor Ahmed Shahwani, saying officers entered without a search warrant and violated the family’s privacy. “Such actions erode public trust in the law and its enforcers,” the statement read.
Separately, the council criticized police officials at Matta Police Station in Upper Swat for allegedly harassing Shahid Khan, a local bar association member. It warned that intimidation of lawyers amounts to an attack on the independence of the legal profession.
Killing of Young Advocate Sparks Outrage
In its strongest remarks, the PBC condemned the killing of Mian Asim Kakakhel, a junior advocate and brother of Advocate Syed Muhammad Zohiab, reportedly at the hands of police. The council labeled the killing a “heinous act” and a direct assault on the dignity and safety of the legal fraternity.
“The targeting of legal professionals undermines both the justice system and the rule of law,” the resolution stated, urging authorities to take immediate action.
