On the invitation of the International Lawyers Association (ILA), Supreme Court’s Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan attended the Annual ILA Seminar and Dinner at Gray’s Inn, London on 18th July 2025, where he was the Guest of Honour; says a statement issued by the Supreme Court here on Wednesday.
The event gathered a distinguished assembly of legal experts from across the globe, with prominent figures from South Asia, notably from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India, alongside senior UK legal practitioners. The Seminar served as a crucial forum for discussions on current legal matters, the hurdles facing judicial systems, and the shared dedication of the worldwide legal community to uphold justice and the rule of law.
In his address, Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan focused on two significant topics: the relevance of the Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court of Pakistan and the pressing need to tackle case backlog. He elaborated that the Constitutional Bench, instituted under the 26th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973, signifies a pivotal evolution in the Court’s operations, ensuring concentrated attention on constitutional interpretation and adjudication. His Lordship highlighted the necessity for the judiciary to operate strictly within constitutional boundaries.
Addressing the issue of pending cases, Justice Hassan recognized the Supreme Court’s substantial backlog and emphasized that ensuring access to justice demands the prompt and efficient resolution of legal disputes. He reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to their constitutional obligations with dedication and fairness. Justice Hassan pointed to the importance of systematic solutions, such as enhanced case management, technology-based hearing solutions, and improved allocation of judicial resources, to prioritize cases of significant constitutional importance. He stressed that reducing backlog is not only an administrative requirement but also a constitutional duty vital to maintaining public trust in the judiciary and the rule of law.
Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan’s insights were well-received by attendees, showcasing the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s determination to face modern challenges with prudence while staying true to constitutional principles and justice. His involvement in this esteemed gathering also aided in reinforcing professional ties and encouraging meaningful exchanges among legal professionals from various regions.