Technological measures to be taken to reduce case backlog: Chief Justice Zubayer

The judiciary would take positive steps to reduce the backlog of cases by adopting technological measures, while ensuring the security and welfare of judges, lawyers and litigants, Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, the newly appointed chief justice, said today (4 January).

He made the remarks while addressing a reception organised by the Attorney General's Office and the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) at Courtroom No 1 of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court.

Referring to judicial reforms, the chief justice said the roadmap prepared by his predecessor, Syed Refaat Ahmed, would be followed, with necessary changes and refinements where required. "Based on that roadmap, we will move forward with appropriate modifications to strengthen the overall judicial system," he said.

Zubayer also emphasised the need for reducing case delays and improving infrastructure, particularly at the district level. "Necessary measures will be taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of judges, lawyers and the large number of people seeking justice."

Highlighting the importance of judicial independence, he said steps toward establishing an independent judiciary had already begun through the formation of a secretariat and that he intended to contribute further to the judiciary's overall development.

Calling upon lawyers, the chief justice urged all stakeholders to work together to make the country a better place to live in so future generations can move forward with peace and prosperity. He also stressed the need to uphold the dignity and sanctity of the legal profession both inside and outside court premises.

He further encouraged professional development and asked the SCBA and other bar associations to arrange regular training programmes for lawyers.

Earlier, the chief justice was formally welcomed at the Appellate Division courtroom by the Attorney General's Office, followed by a reception hosted by the SCBA.

SCBA President Barrister AM Mahbubuddin Khokon delivered a welcome speech on behalf of the association.

Speaking at the programme, Additional Attorney General Mohammad Arshadur Rouf said the courts are the final and safest refuge for people's hopes and aspirations. However, he alleged that during the past years of autocratic rule, the judiciary had been politicised and, in many cases, misused as an instrument of political oppression.

He said corruption had penetrated various layers of the judiciary, while unjustified delays and rushed trials had pushed the justice system into crisis, eroding public trust and independence.

Addressing the chief justice, SCBA President Khokon said the judiciary must be kept free from political influence and syndicates.

He expressed hope that the new chief justice would ensure a fully independent judiciary, protect constitutional and fundamental rights, reduce unnecessary delays in case disposal and restore public confidence in the justice system.

He also called for eliminating corruption and discrimination at all levels and urged attention to issues such as enforced disappearances, killings and false cases over the past years.

Judges of both divisions of the Supreme Court, senior lawyers, journalists and court officials were present at the programme.

Chief Justice Zubayer Rahman took oath of office on 28 December at Bangabhaban, administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, in the presence of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, outgoing chief justice Syed Refaat Ahmed and other dignitaries.