Chief Justice Yahya Afridi Offers Free Legal Aid to Low-Income Litigants

The Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Yahya Afridi, has announced that all low-income litigants will receive free legal representation at the state's expense in every court of the country. During his visit to Quetta, he presided over a meeting at the Supreme Court’s Branch Registry to review cooperation between the Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan and bar associations in Balochistan. The meeting was attended by various officials including Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court and representatives from bar associations and government bodies.

Chief Justice Yahya Afridi emphasized the importance of bar associations in the justice system and announced the appointment of senior representatives in each province to enhance coordination with district bars. Bar associations can now propose development plans through District Development Committees, involving federal and provincial agencies for timely completion of projects. He urged bar leaders to raise awareness about these reforms and improve the organization of government-provided facilities.

Justice Afridi highlighted the need for targeted action in underdeveloped districts to improve access to basic services and digital infrastructure. As part of the initiative, lawyers offering legal aid to low-income litigants will be compensated through district legal empowerment committees. Bar associations will nominate eligible lawyers for each court and encourage participation in Continuing Legal Education programs.