In a groundbreaking move to modernize Pakistan's judicial system, the Lahore High Court has launched a comprehensive video-link facility across all district and ex-cadre courts in Punjab province. This revolutionary initiative promises to transform how citizens access justice while significantly reducing procedural delays.
Digital Justice at Your Doorstep
Under the visionary leadership of Chief Justice Ms. Aalia Neelum, the Lahore High Court has taken this significant step toward making justice more accessible and convenient for all citizens. The new system allows litigants and lawyers to participate in court proceedings remotely, eliminating the need for physical presence in many cases.
The facility specifically benefits individuals who face genuine obstacles in attending court personally. Those suffering from illness, physical disabilities, geographical constraints, travel limitations, or security concerns can now request video-link participation. However, the court has made it clear that proclaimed offenders will not be permitted to use this facility under any circumstances.
How to Access the Video Link Service
Interested parties must follow a straightforward procedure to avail this modern judicial service. Request forms are available on the district judiciary's official website at https://dsj.punjab.gov.pk, and applicants must submit their requests at least seven days before their scheduled hearing date.
Once approved, the concerned court will schedule a specific date and time for the video-link hearing. The cause list will clearly mark these sessions with a "video-link" tag to ensure proper identification. The court has emphasized that no adjournments will be granted on the day of video-link hearings.
Security and Verification Protocols
The LHC has implemented robust security measures to ensure the integrity of video-link proceedings. Identity verification will be conducted through original CNIC or passport, accompanied by biometric authentication. For disabled litigants requiring verification, the local District Court will depute an officer to visit their location, with travel expenses to be borne by the litigant.
Pakistanis residing abroad have the option to attend proceedings through Pakistan Embassy, High Commission, Consulate, or an authorized Notary, subject to prior court approval. The LHC has assured that all video-link hearings will occur in a fully secure and transparent environment.
Only the court maintains authorization to record proceedings, with any unauthorized recording by litigants or lawyers strictly prohibited. The requesting party must cover facility expenses and provide a USB or external hard drive with 125 GB to 500 GB capacity in advance for official recording purposes. All recordings will remain password-protected and become part of the official case file.
Transforming Punjab's Judicial Landscape
This forward-looking judicial reform represents a significant leap toward modernizing Pakistan's legal system. By embracing digital technology, the Lahore High Court aims to dramatically reduce case backlogs and bring the judicial system closer to ordinary citizens across Punjab province.
The initiative reflects the judiciary's commitment to adapting to contemporary needs while maintaining the highest standards of transparency and security. As the system becomes operational, it's expected to set new benchmarks for efficient justice delivery in Pakistan.
