Efforts Underway to Enhance Justice Accessibility Through Procedural Reforms: Chief Justice

Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed today said that works are underway to make justice more accessible through maximum use of technology, procedural reforms and legal aid. “As part of my steadfast commitment to institutional reform and strengthening the independence of the judiciary, I have taken decisive steps to establish the foundations for true separation of powers,” he said while addressing as the chief guest at a conference titled “Judicial Independence and Efficiency” at  a city hotel here.

He added: “I have declared and initiated the process of creating a separate Secretariat for the Judiciary, a pivotal measure to ensure the judiciary's administrative autonomy.” Alongside this, the Chief Justice said they have proposed the formation of a Judicial Appointment Council to institutionalize transparency and meritocracy in the appointment process of apex court judges, as well as Posting and Transfer Guidelines for District Judiciaries, aimed at fostering consistency and fairness in judicial postings. 

“These proposals have been formally submitted to the government for necessary action, marking a significant step toward the complete institutional separation of the judiciary from the executive branch,” he said. Justice Md. Ashfaqul Islam presided over the conference while Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, Stefan Liller, judges of the Supreme Court, members of District Judiciary and media, were present at the conference.

Moreover, in reinforcing the judiciary's independence from the legislative branch, he said, “We have restored and strengthened the Supreme Judicial Council following the disposal of the 16th Amendment review case. This pivotal move effectively eliminates the provision for Parliament to impeach Supreme Court judges, ensuring that the judiciary remains free from undue political influence.”

These measures collectively embody a holistic vision for safeguarding the independence and integrity of our judicial system, reflecting our firm commitment to uphold the principles of justice and the rule of law, he opined. “Another important initiative I would like to share is recognizing the critical importance of access to justice, I introduced a Capacity Test alongside the existing Means Test for invoking legal aid services,” he said.

 This reform was driven by the alarming reality that a significant number of individuals were being denied defence counsel in court, undermining their fundamental right to a fair trial, the Chief Justice said. The Capacity Test assesses an individual's ability to navigate legal proceedings independently, ensuring that those who lack resources are provided with the support they need, he said. He continued this initiative marks a significant step forward in our reform efforts, as it expands the reach of legal aid services and reinforces our commitment to ensuring that no one is denied justice due to financial or practical constraints.

“Upon my assuming office, I forthwith instructed my registry to diligently adhere to 12-point directives, which, though not exhaustive, encompasses paramount priorities: the maintenance of an unblemished code of conduct, the eradication of monetary corruption, the provision of swift and seamless services to seekers, and the assurance of a hassle-free experience for all,” he said. Furthermore, he said he directed the establishment of a helpline to facilitate citizens' unimpeded access to the system, thereby ensuring transparency and efficiency.

These objectives collectively form the cornerstone of my envisioned roadmap, blending persistent principles with modern exigencies for the greater good of society, he said. He continued: “When I had the distinct honour of taking the oath as the 25th Chief Justice of Bangladesh, I was acutely aware of the immense responsibility placed upon my shoulders.”  This role is not merely a position of leadership but a solemn trust bestowed by the people of this nation to uphold fairness, equity, and ensure access to justice for all, irrespective of their status or circumstances, he said

“From the very moment of my appointment, I recognized the urgency of addressing the challenges that have long impeded the full realization of our judiciary’s potential. To this end, on September 21, I unveiled a comprehensive Roadmap for Judicial Reform. This initiative is a cornerstone of my vision to strengthen our judiciary and its capacity to serve the people with integrity and efficiency.