In a landmark move following the recent 26th Constitutional Amendment, the Senate Committee has agreed to raise the number of Supreme Court judges from the current 17 to 25. This decision is part of an ongoing effort to address growing case backlogs, enhance judicial efficiency, and strengthen the overall capacity of the Supreme Court to handle complex legal challenges. The move aims to ensure timely justice for citizens and reinforce confidence in the judicial system.
The committee’s endorsement is expected to have far-reaching effects on the judiciary’s structure, alleviating some of the significant delays experienced by the Supreme Court. With a larger bench, the Supreme Court will be better positioned to address the diverse cases and issues brought before it, from constitutional matters to civil and criminal appeals. It also provides a broader representation within the judicial body, potentially bringing diverse perspectives to the interpretation of laws and the Constitution.
Critics have raised questions about the resources and infrastructure needed to support this expansion, noting the costs and administrative adjustments required. However, proponents argue that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, citing the need to modernize the judiciary to keep pace with an increasingly complex legal landscape. They contend that additional judges will help reduce the strain on existing judges, who currently manage heavy caseloads, and foster more efficient processing of cases.
With the committee’s approval, the proposal now moves to the legislative stage, where it will undergo further review. If passed, this amendment would mark a significant step forward in judicial reform, reflecting a commitment to strengthening the rule of law and access to justice for all citizens.
