The Judicial Commission of Pakistan has recommended the confirmation of three additional judges of the Islamabad High Court and unanimously approved making a Balochistan High Court judge permanent, according to an official announcement.

The second meeting of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan was chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi. The commission reviewed multiple agenda items related to judicial appointments, confirmations, and reforms.

An official announcement detailing the decisions taken during the meeting was subsequently issued.

Islamabad High Court judges

The Judicial Commission recommended the confirmation of three additional judges of the Islamabad High Court. These include Justice Muhammad Azam Khan, Justice Muhammad Asif, and Justice Inam Amin Minhas.

The recommendations were made after a detailed review of data forms, previous judicial records, and other relevant materials. Sources confirmed that the three judges, who were appointed last year, were approved to be made permanent.

Balochistan High Court judge

The commission unanimously approved making Justice Najmuddin Mengal a permanent judge of the Balochistan High Court.

However, the recommendation for confirmation of Justice Ayub Khan was rejected by a majority vote, according to the announcement and sources familiar with the proceedings.

The Commission also deliberated on the appointment of judges and the criteria for forming constitutional benches of the high courts. Consultations were held on the principles for nominating judges to these benches.

These discussions form part of broader efforts to standardise judicial appointments and bench formations.

Amendments to Judicial Commission Rules

During the meeting, proposed amendments to the Judicial Commission Rules 2024 were considered. The interview procedure for judicial appointments was also discussed in detail.

Additionally, amendments related to appointments in the Federal Constitutional Court were reviewed.

The Judicial Commission authorised a committee to conduct a detailed review of the discussed matters. The committee has been directed to prepare recommendations aimed at implementing a transparent, effective, and credible judicial system.

Officials said the move reflects the commission’s intent to strengthen institutional processes and public confidence in judicial appointments.