Video-Link Justice: Punjab’s New Move to Cut Delays

APP

Lahore: In a significant move to modernize judicial processes and ensure timely justice, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has launched a comprehensive video-link facility in district courts and ex-cadre courts across Punjab.

The initiative, introduced under the directives of LHC Chief Justice Ms. Aalia Neelum, aims to provide convenient, swift, and high-quality access to justice for litigants without requiring physical presence in court.

According to an LHC press release on Thursday, litigants or lawyers wishing to use the service must submit a request form—available on the district judiciary’s official website (https://dsj.punjab.gov.pk

)—at least seven days before the hearing date. The facility allows remote participation, helping reduce delays and easing logistical challenges.

The video-link option is available for individuals unable to appear in person due to illness, disability, geographical constraints, travel restrictions, or security concerns. However, proclaimed offenders are strictly barred from using the facility.

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Once approved, the concerned court will schedule the hearing, marking the cause list with a “video-link” tag. No adjournments will be allowed on the hearing day. Parties must ensure their witnesses are present at the designated site at least one hour before proceedings. Identity verification will be conducted using original CNICs or passports, along with biometric authentication.

For disabled litigants needing verification, the local district court will depute an officer to visit their location, with travel costs borne by the litigant. Those residing abroad may attend proceedings through Pakistani embassies, high commissions, consulates, or authorized notaries, subject to court approval.

The LHC has stressed that video-link hearings will be conducted in a fully secure and transparent environment. Only the court is authorized to record proceedings; any unauthorized recording by litigants or lawyers is strictly prohibited. 

The requesting party must cover the facility’s expenses and provide a USB or external hard drive (125 GB to 500 GB) for official recording, which will form part of the case file and remain password-protected.

This forward-looking reform is expected to improve access to justice, reduce case delays, and bring the judicial system closer to citizens across Punjab.