Badin (Dr. Masood Shah): Acting Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court, Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput, visited Badin upon the invitation of the District Bar Association. The visit was marked by the presence of retired judges, senior officials, and a large number of lawyers who gathered to hear Justice Rajput address key issues related to justice, fairness, and judicial responsibility.

The dignitaries present included retired Justices Abdul Rasool Memon and Ghulam Rabbani, Registrar of Sindh High Court Asif Majeed, District & Sessions Judges Badin Anayatullah Bhutto and Tando Muhammad Khan Inam Ali Kalhoro, Deputy Commissioner Badin Yasir Bhatti, SSP Badin Qamar Raza Jaskani, President of District Bar Association Badin Lala Dildar Pathan, General Secretary Amir Azad Panhwar, Vice President Mashooq Bhargari, District Attorney Syed Ajmal Kazmi, and other judges and legal professionals.

During his address to the District Bar Association, Acting Chief Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput emphasized that justice is not a matter of policy or personal preference but a fundamental right of every oppressed individual. “Justice is not dictated by our personal inclinations; it is governed by the law. When relief is due under the law, every litigant must be granted justice,” he stated. He further cautioned against arbitrary decisions based on personal whims, noting that such judgments compromise judicial integrity and can damage public confidence in the judicial system.

Justice Rajput elaborated that even if a decision is not in line with an individual judge’s mindset, it must adhere strictly to legal provisions. “If we make decisions according to our personal preferences, our integrity will be questioned. If a judgment is not based on the law, it will raise doubts about the institution rather than the judge. People may become disheartened, and we must ensure that this does not happen,” he said.

He stressed that the essence of justice lies in protecting the rights of the oppressed. “Those who deprive people of their rightful entitlements are committing injustice, and anyone failing to stand with the oppressed in their time of need aligns with the oppressors,” Justice Rajput emphasized. He added that a society may tolerate many shortcomings, but injustice should never be accepted. Court decisions must reflect the law, not personal biases, and the state is responsible for ensuring justice through its judicial machinery.

Justice Rajput also spoke on the ongoing recruitment process for new judges, affirming that appointments would be made solely on merit. “The recruitment of new judges is in process, and all selections will be based 100 percent on merit. This ensures that the integrity and credibility of our judiciary are maintained,” he said.

During the visit, Justice Rajput announced several development initiatives for the Badin District courts. A solar energy system tender has been finalized for the District & Sessions Court Badin, and installation is expected shortly. Additionally, e-libraries will be established in Badin, Matli Shaheed Fazil Rahu, and Tando Bago courts to modernize access to legal resources. Facilities for the Bar Association in Badin, including air-conditioned chambers and a canteen, will also be developed to provide better infrastructure for legal practitioners.

Following his address at the Bar Association, Acting Chief Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput proceeded to Matli to inaugurate the Civil Court there. The inauguration underscored the Sindh High Court’s commitment to improving judicial facilities and ensuring that courts in all regions are equipped with modern infrastructure for efficient functioning.

Justice Rajput’s visit reflected a broader message about judicial responsibility and transparency. He highlighted that the judiciary must act as a guardian of the law and protect the rights of all citizens, particularly the marginalized and oppressed. Arbitrary judgments, favoritism, or negligence not only harm individuals but also erode public trust in the justice system.

He concluded by reiterating that the Sindh High Court is committed to providing timely justice, improving court facilities, and ensuring the appointment of competent judges through transparent and merit-based processes. The initiatives announced, including the solar energy project, e-libraries, and improved Bar Association facilities, are part of ongoing efforts to modernize court infrastructure and strengthen the administration of justice across the province.

The visit was highly appreciated by the legal fraternity in Badin, who lauded Justice Rajput’s emphasis on fairness, integrity, and institutional accountability. The judges, lawyers, and administrative officials present expressed optimism that the announced developments would enhance court efficiency and create a more conducive environment for legal proceedings.