As the federal capital of Pakistan, Islamabad serves as the nerve center for the country’s political and administrative activities. Consequently, its legal framework and judicial infrastructure are uniquely dynamic, often reflecting the broader national legal trends while also addressing the specific needs of the capital territory. From structural changes within its high court to the enforcement of public safety regulations and landmark legislative reforms, the legal scene in Islamabad is in a state of constant evolution.
Judicial Restructuring and the Islamabad High Court
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has recently been the epicenter of significant administrative reshuffling, sparking debate about judicial seniority and governance. In February 2025, following the transfer of three new judges to the IHC, Chief Justice Sardar Mohammad Sarfraz Dogar implemented substantial administrative changes . Notably, Justice Sardar Sarfraz Dogar was appointed as the administrator of the Anti-Terrorism Courts (ATC) and National Accountability Courts, taking over responsibilities previously held by senior judge Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani .
This restructuring was formalized through amendments to the High Court Rules, specifically altering Rule 237 to give the Chief Justice discretion to nominate members of the Administration Committee, a power that previously automatically included the senior puisne judge . These changes effectively reduced the administrative authority of Justice Kayani, removing him from key bodies like the Departmental Promotion Committee. The move drew immediate opposition from other judges, including Justice Babar Sattar, who raised concerns over the exclusion of senior judges and the alteration of the seniority list, arguing it undermined the established conventions of judicial hierarchy .
Adding to the judicial complexity, Islamabad is now home to Pakistan’s first Federal Constitutional Court, established under the 27th Constitutional Amendment. The court commenced its hearings in November 2025 within the IHC premises, operating under Chief Justice Aminuddin Khan . Operating from Courtroom No. 2 of the IHC, this specialized court has formed multiple benches to manage its workload, marking a new chapter in the capital’s judicial history by focusing specifically on constitutional matters .
Public Order and Safety Regulations
The capital’s administration frequently utilizes Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to maintain public order. In late 2025, the district magistrate imposed a two-month ban on all forms of protests, public gatherings, rallies, and demonstrations to ensure peace and security, warning citizens of legal action for non-compliance .
Earlier in November 2025, the administration imposed a broader set of restrictions targeting public behavior. These included a ban on loudspeakers (except for the Azan and Friday sermon), the sale of fireworks, and the display of weapons in public. The order also prohibited boating at Rawal Lake and Simly Dam, reflecting a mix of security, religious, and public safety concerns .
In parallel, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has intensified its crackdown on illegal construction. Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon issued a stern warning that any construction without prior approval from the Capital Development Authority (CDA) could lead to serious consequences, including imprisonment . Authorities have been instructed to target not only violators but also suppliers of construction materials who fail to verify official permits, emphasizing that unregulated development poses severe safety hazards .
Legislative Developments and Law Reforms
Islamabad often serves as a testing ground for national legal reforms. Historical efforts, such as those led by former Law Minister Barrister Syed Ali Zafar, resulted in draft bills aimed at revolutionizing the civil justice system. The proposed Code of Civil Procedure (Amendment) Bill, 2018, sought to introduce time-limited trials, strict limits on adjournments, and a case management system, initially intended to be applicable only in Islamabad to expedite the resolution of civil disputes . Similarly, amendments were proposed to the Defamation Ordinance to ensure swift justice within 90 days and to rationalize damages .
More recently, legislative focus has shifted toward social welfare and institutional regulation. The parliament has passed bills specifically for the capital territory, including the Islamabad Capital Territory Senior Citizens Bill and the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Bill, aiming to establish funds for the elderly and provide a legal framework to protect victims of domestic abuse .
On the regulatory front, the president gave his assent to the Societies Registration (Amendment) Act, 2024, bringing madrasahs (religious seminaries) under a formal registration framework. The law requires seminaries to register under the Societies Act, submit annual educational and audit reports, and prohibits the teaching of literature that promotes militancy or sectarianism. This move was widely welcomed as a structured approach to regulating religious education while ensuring the autonomy of these institutions .
Conclusion
The legal landscape of Islamabad is a complex tapestry woven from judicial precedents, administrative directives, and legislative innovations. From the administrative corridors of the Islamabad High Court to the enforcement of public safety laws and the enactment of progressive social legislation, the capital remains a focal point for legal development in Pakistan. As the city grows, the balance between maintaining order, ensuring swift justice, and protecting citizens’ rights continues to shape its unique legal identity.