The In Pursuit of Justice book launch marked an important moment in Pakistan’s legal community, as senior jurists gathered to celebrate the autobiography of Justice (retd) Agha Rafiq Ahmed Khan, former Chief Justice of the Federal Shariat Court. The ceremony, held at a private university, brought together members of the judiciary, legal scholars, and distinguished guests to reflect on decades of judicial service and the enduring challenges of the justice system.
Justice (retd) Khan’s memoir, In Pursuit of Justice, offers a deeply personal and professional account of his journey through Pakistan’s legal landscape. Spanning many decades, the book captures his experiences on the bench, the institutional transformations he witnessed, and the principles that guided his career.
A Call for Independent and Speedy Justice
During the In Pursuit of Justice book launch, Justice (retd) Khan emphasized the importance of delivering speedy justice free from external influence. He urged judges to remain steadfast in their commitment to fairness and independence, regardless of pressure from any party appearing before them.
His remarks struck a chord with attendees, particularly in a country where judicial delays and systemic challenges often dominate public discourse. He highlighted that justice delayed can undermine public confidence, reinforcing the need for efficiency without compromising integrity.
The autobiography itself reflects this philosophy. According to the former chief justice, he wrote candidly about what he observed in the judiciary, sharing both its strengths and its shortcomings.
A Personal Journey Through the Judiciary
Justice (retd) Khan revealed that he decided to write his memoirs on the advice of friends. The book recounts not only landmark moments in his judicial career but also deeply personal episodes. Among the most striking revelations shared during the In Pursuit of Justice book launch were instances where he narrowly avoided imprisonment during turbulent periods.
These reflections offer readers insight into the pressures faced by members of the judiciary during politically sensitive times. By documenting such experiences, the memoir provides a rare glimpse into the resilience required to uphold judicial independence.
He also spoke about a long legal battle concerning his pension, a case he pursued for nearly 20 years after filing a petition in 2014. This personal struggle illustrates that even senior jurists are not immune to systemic hurdles.
Changing Times in the Judiciary
Another topic addressed at the In Pursuit of Justice book launch was the evolution of judicial compensation and institutional structures. Justice (retd) Khan recalled that when he was appointed in 1973, his monthly salary was approximately Rs400—a stark contrast to the significantly higher salaries of judges today.
His reflection underscored how the judiciary has transformed over the decades, not only in financial terms but also in its role and responsibilities within Pakistan’s constitutional framework.
Sindh High Court Chief Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput praised the memoir, describing it as a valuable record of judicial experience. He noted that many judicial memoirs blur the line between fact and opinion, but he considered this work distinct in its clarity and authenticity.
Broader Reflections on Judicial Reform
The event also featured remarks from former Sindh governor Lt Gen (retd) Moin Uddin Haider, who announced that a Sindhi translation of the book would soon be available. This step aims to make the memoir accessible to a wider audience, reflecting its broader relevance.
Discussions at the In Pursuit of Justice book launch naturally extended to the issue of delays in the justice system. Haider suggested that military courts could serve as a practical solution in certain cases, given that many cases in traditional courts remain unresolved for years.
While opinions may differ on this proposal, the discussion highlighted the urgency of judicial reform. Delays not only burden litigants but also strain institutional credibility.
A Legacy of Principle and Reflection
The In Pursuit of Justice book launch was more than a ceremonial gathering; it was a reflection on the values that define the judiciary. Justice (retd) Khan’s memoir stands as both a personal narrative and a historical account of Pakistan’s evolving legal system.
Through his experiences, readers gain insight into the challenges of maintaining impartiality, the pressures of public service, and the importance of resilience. His call for independent and timely justice resonates strongly in today’s context, where judicial efficiency and transparency remain key priorities.
By sharing his journey, Justice (retd) Khan has contributed a meaningful addition to Pakistan’s legal literature. The memoir not only documents a distinguished career but also encourages ongoing dialogue about strengthening the justice system for future generations.
As the legal community continues to grapple with reform and modernization, works like In Pursuit of Justice serve as reminders that the pursuit of fairness, integrity, and accountability must remain at the heart of the judiciary.
