Independence of Judiciary
Independence of Judiciary
ABSTRACT
This research study deals with the topic of Independence of Judiciary.Firstly a general overview
is given regarding the topic.Secondly,Different objectives of this research assignment is
discussed which include to define the concept of Independence of Judiciary and to highlight its
importance in Islam,What is Importance of Judicial independence in Pakistan? &To describe
various dimensions of this concept,to discuss the relationship between Judicial Independence and
Doctrine of Separation of Power;to analyse the concept of Judicial Independence under the
Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan,1973 with special reference to 18th and 19th
constitutional amendment & to state the major factors which are causing obstacles in the smooth
running of judiciary in Pakistan.Thirdly, the methodology which is adopted in this research study
is briefly discussed.Lastly,while making analysis of the concept it is stated in this research study
that 18th and 19th constitutional played a vital role regarding the independence of judiciary in
Pakistan.
INTRODUCTION:
Judicial independence is key to a properly functioning judicial system. It allows judges to make
impartial decisions in accordance with law and evidence only, shielding them from inappropriate
outside influence, whether from other branches of Government, the public, or the private sector.
The impartial adjudication of disputes is a crucial component of the rule of law, and is essential
to a peaceful, prosperous and democratic society. An independent judiciary promotes that
citizens do not feel the need to take justice into their own hands, and that they can take short and
long term financial decisions with confidence. This only works when the population actually
observes and is convinced that justice is served in the way described. To make this possible the
judiciary needs to function in a transparent and accountable manner, especially elucidating
arrangements that impact directly independence, such as the manner in which cases are allocated
to judges.(Dijk & Vos ,2018).The judicial system was adopted by Pakistan from the prevailing
system of colonial period which was mainly acquired from the judicial system of the British;
however that judicial system was designed and developed according to colonial needs of the
British Empire because it was not made independent from the executive which had financial and
administrative powers over the judiciary. Therefore, the colonial judicial system adopted by
Pakistan after its independence could not ensure the standard of justice for an independent nation
state. The judicial system in Pakistan had been favoring the executive branch of the government
and the powerful classes against the rights of the common people since the emergence of
Pakistan.(Bhatti & Shaheen ,2019).
Objectives of the Proposed Research:
Following are the objectives of this research study:
i. To define the concept of Independence of Judiciary and to highlight its importance in Islam.
ii. What is Importance of Judicial independence in Pakistan? &To describe various dimensions
of this concept.
iii. To discuss the relationship between Judicial Independence and Doctrine of Separation of
Power.
iv. To analyse the concept of Judicial Independence under the Constitution of Islamic Republic
of Pakistan,1973 with special reference to 18th and 19th constitutional amendment.&
v. To state the major factors which are causing obstacles in the smooth running of judiciary in
Pakistan.
Research Methodology:
Research technique adopted in this research is theoretical .Main sources used are books,
internet, research articles and case laws. Case laws helped to know the importance and
understanding of Independence of Judiciary in the Judicial system of Pakistan. Books and
internet helped to know about the previous researches done on this topic.
Hypothesis:
The 18th and 19th constitutional amendment in the Constitution of Islamic Republic of
Pakistan,1973 played a vital role regarding the judicial independence in Pakistan.
Relevant Laws:
The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan,1973.
Definition and Meaning of Independence of Judiciary:
According to Dr V.K Rao: He has comprehensively defined the concept of Independence of
Judiciary in following words:
Dr.V.K Rao gives three meanings to the concept of independence of judiciary: Firstly the
judiciary must be free from encroachment of other organs in its sphere. In this respect, it is called
separation of powers. Secondly it means the freedom of the judgments and decrees from
legislative interference. Thirdly, it means, the decisions of the judiciary should not be influenced
by either the executive or the legislature. It also means freedom from both, fear and favor of the
other two organs.(Vishnoo Bhagwan,1999).
Judicial Independence in the light of Islam:
Islam gives much stress upon the Independence of Judiciary, right to access to justice was
fundamental in Islamic system from outset. More elaborate are the instructions, Adab-i-Qazaat,
(Kanz-ul-Amal, p. 512) given by Umar to Abu Musa Ashura and other qazis. Whereas the west
took centuries to conceive these instructions which stand as sovereign principles of the
administration of justice: Umar Bin Khitab, Second Pious Caliph said “The Qazi’s functions
require the enforcement of either an unequivocal ordinance of the Quran, or a practice that is
permissible to follow. You must appreciate this when matters are put before you, for it is useless
to offer a plea that is not valid.” He further directed, “Treat all Muslims as equal in your court
and in the attention they receive; so neither the man of high status will expect you to be partial
nor will the humble despair of justice from you.”(Muhammadan Law 3rd ed. ,1940).
Judicial Independence in Pakistan :
The performance of judiciary, in recent years, is strikingly buoyant and promising in
Pakistan.Perhaps, the most encouraging feature of free institutions in Pakistan is in the form of
the judiciary.( G. W. Choudhury, Constitutional Development In Pakistan (2nd ed., P 232).The
legislature and the executive are unfortunately deficient to deliver and are under criticism for
their inefficiency, yet it is now generally appreciated that the superior judiciary in Pakistan is
playing a critical role in safeguarding the fundamental rights and acting as a guardian of the
constitution.( Mayo,2018).
The judiciary is a fundamental institutional arrangement for dispensation of justice among
people. No civilized society can be conceived in the absence of independent and impartial
administration of justice. Therefore, the passionate longing to establish an independent judiciary
was incorporated in the Objectives Resolution, 1948. Moreover, Article 2A 4, 9, 10-A 14, 25,
175,175-A and 179 are also aimed to advance the objective of establishing an independent and
impartial administration of justice.(PLD 2010 SC, 120-121).History bears testimony to the fact
that unjust societies had never been allowed to exist for a longer time: either they “had to reform
themselves paying heavy costs in blood and pain or were wiped off the face of this earth.” (PLD
2010 SC p. 120). Like other modern constitutions of the world, the constitution in our country
has discussed the judicial system at length. The constitution has not left details to parliament for
further legislation instead it has comprehensively dealt with the subject of composition of
judiciary and jurisdiction of various courts. Even the system of accountability and appointment
of judges is provided by the Constitution. Significantly, the constitution has envisioned a
separate institution of judiciary totally insulated from the influences of other organs of state.
(Article 175 of The Constitution 1973).The preamble and Art 2A have specifically promised the
judicial independence. Further, The Constitution has enstaked the judiciary to“preserve, protect
and defend the constitution.”Thus, the Constitution secures, to great extent, independence of
judiciary.(Mayo ,2018).
Different Dimensions of Judicial Independence:
The concept of judicial independence can be discussed from different angles one way is to
discuss it from the organizational perspective and other is relating to the legal position of judges.
Only organizational independence is not enough to ensure an impartial administration of justice
but judges should also be completely free in performance of their judicial functions. There may
be difference of opinion regarding importance of one or other aspect, however, along with
separation of powers there are certain other characteristics which are crucial for the
independence of the judiciary. This concept is approached two different perspectives: a narrow
and broad. From narrow perspective, judicial independence is deals with organizational
arrangements between the courts and other organs while in its broader sense it means
independence from any other authority including litigants, interest groups and even from the
pressure of Bar.(Kuijer ,2004). Then the concept has different types and dimensions of judicial
independence for the sake of better comprehension of the concept.Different dimensions of
judicial independence are discussed here under the following heads.
Functional Independence of Judges:
Functional independence means that system must ensure such framework where a Judges must
feel comfortable in following the dictates of law they must be independent in exercise of their
discretion in the best interest of justice without fear and favour. It also refers to decisional
independence which means the independence of judges to decide without giving in to any
internal or external pressure.(Mollah,2011). The most important occupation of a judge is to
deliver justice by interpreting the law. This fundamental function must not be vulnerable to any
external and internal compromises rather the functional independence is first and foremost
condition for a fair justice. A solid intellectual and moral background of judge is not enough to
ensure justice but that there must be formal control of the decisions in the form of multi tier
hierarchies, culminating in the highest body in charge of unifying the jurisprudence in the
respective specialty, with total exclusion of the other governing bodies.(Velandia,1999 ).A
number of factors can undermine the functional independence of judiciary, like concentration of
judicial and executive power as concentration in one hand may be suicidal for functional judicial
independence. Functional independence can be secured by securing a special rapport between the
judiciary and the law. In Pakistan, the provisions related to separation of powers are aimed to
ensure functional independence and it is worth noting that the provisions related to separation of
powers in Pakistan are not subject to amendment.(Mahmood Khan Achkzai v Federation Of
Pakistan).
Personal Independence:
Personal independence refers to a arrangement where the judges are not dependent on executive.
Had they been dependent, it may influence them while deciding cases.(Ahmed,2011).Judges
should be independent within the organization to adjudicate upon disputes without fear or favor.
Personal independence is impinged on the legal position of the judge. More precisely it is related
to guarantees that a constitutional system devise vis-à-vis hiring and firing, pay and pension,
evaluation and elevation, transfers and tenures etc.(Verhey,2001).Factors which should be
considered when examining independence include the manner of appointment, the duration of
office and protection against external pressures.(Campbell & Fell v United Kingdom,1985).
Fiscal Independence:
Judicial systems are not self sustaining and funds for their operations are provided from the
sources which are available under the control of Parliament. It may be justified on the pretext of
judicial accountability but on the other hand it also exposes the dependence of judiciary on other
branches Government.If parliament or the executive strictly control judicial resources then the
judiciary cannot be called independent at all. Definitely, dispensation of justice should not be
hampered due to scarcity funds. The economic and financial autonomy has significant bearing on
independence of judiciary.(Subramanian , 2000).
REFERENCES:
Books: