56 Divorce Cases Filed on First Day of 2026 in Rawalpindi

News Desk 

Rawalpindi: The New Year in Rawalpindi began with fresh hopes and quiet courtrooms, as the district judiciary marked its first working day of 2026 amid the final winter holidays. 

While judicial activity remained limited, the Rawalpindi Judicial Complex still witnessed a telling start to the year — one that reflected the personal struggles unfolding behind courtroom doors.

On the very first judicial day, 56 new divorce cases were filed in the family courts, underscoring the growing strain on family structures.

 Among them was a petition filed by a Christian woman under the newly enacted Christian Marriage Act, highlighting the expanding legal avenues now available to religious minorities seeking marital redress.

Court officials said the initial hearings of these newly filed family cases will be conducted by a senior civil judge on January 2, when normal court proceedings resume.

Despite the subdued atmosphere due to holidays, legal activity continued in criminal matters. Bail applications for 21 accused involved in cases of murder, robbery and narcotics were filed on the first day of the year.

Read More: https://thepenpk.com/how-rising-divorce-rates-threaten-social-fabric/

In contrast, courts granted bail to 17 arrested individuals booked in cases related to kite flying, aerial firing and the sale of kites — offences that often surge during festive periods.

Duty judges remained active, granting physical remand of 37 accused persons, while 21 others were sent to Adiala Jail on judicial remand. The courts also issued arrest warrants for seven accused and declared five individuals proclaimed offenders.

In a move reflecting administrative accountability, the courts ordered the suspension of salaries of three police officials, two patwaris, two girdawars and one naib tehsildar over non-compliance with court directives.

Session, civil, family and magistrate courts across Rawalpindi — and throughout the province — officially reopened on January 2, setting the stage for a full resumption of judicial proceedings in the days ahead.

As 2026 unfolds, the first figures from the courts offer a sobering glimpse into the legal, social and personal battles that continue regardless of the turning calendar — reminding citizens that while the year may be new, the challenges remain deeply familiar. Input from the Express Tribune.