Supreme Court pays tribute to Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail at full court reference

ISLAMABAD, Nov 11 (APP): The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday held a Full Court Reference in honour of Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail on the occasion of his retirement from judicial service, acknowledging his distinguished career and contributions to the administration of justice.
The reference was attended by the Chief Justice of Pakistan, Supreme Court judges, Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Usman Awan, Vice Chairman Pakistan Bar Council Pir Mohammad Masood Chishti, President Supreme Court Bar Association Syed Amjad Shah, senior law officers and members of the legal fraternity.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Justice paid tribute to Justice Mandokhail’s professional journey from the Bar in Balochistan to the Supreme Court, highlighting his contributions to constitutional jurisprudence, judicial administration and institutional development.
He particularly acknowledged Justice Mandokhail’s efforts to strengthen the district judiciary and judicial infrastructure during his tenure as Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court. He also appreciated his advice, counsel and support, saying his presence had contributed to collegiality and harmony within the court.
Emphasising the importance of cooperation between the Bench and Bar, the Chief Justice said mutual respect and constructive engagement were essential for the administration of justice. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining harmony between the two institutions and said comprehensive standard operating procedures had been introduced to ensure transparency, consistency and accountability in judicial administration.
He also highlighted the provision of free legal aid at different levels, reiterating that no person should be denied legal representation due to financial constraints.
In his farewell address, Justice Mandokhail said judicial independence was a constitutional safeguard for the people rather than a privilege of judges. He stressed that the judicial oath required impartiality, integrity and adherence to the Constitution and law, without fear, favour or external influence.
He observed that protecting judicial independence and fundamental rights required collective commitment from Parliament, the Executive, the Judiciary and the legal fraternity.
Reflecting on his career, Justice Mandokhail said he had remained committed to deciding cases in accordance with the Constitution, law and evidence while ensuring fair hearings and equal treatment of litigants. He also highlighted the importance of responsible media reporting, mutual respect among state institutions and an independent Bar in upholding the rule of law.
He thanked his family, colleagues, members of the Bar and court staff for their support throughout his professional journey and reaffirmed his commitment to the Constitution and the cause of justice.
Earlier, Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Usman Awan, Pakistan Bar Council Vice Chairman Pir Mohammad Masood Chishti and Supreme Court Bar Association President Syed Amjad Shah also paid tribute to Justice Mandokhail’s services to the judiciary and legal profession.
The SCBA president appreciated the Supreme Court’s ongoing judicial reforms, including digitisation of case records, e-filing, electronic certified copies, improved case fixation procedures and public facilitation initiatives such as the 1818 Legal Call Centre and Court-Annexed Mediation Centre.
He stressed the need to further strengthen case management, ensure timely fixation of cases and reduce delays in their disposal. He also assured the Bar’s full cooperation in efforts to make the justice system more efficient, accessible and people-centred.