Excerpt: This post answers the questions “Who was the first chief justice of Balochistan High Court? Who was the first chief justice of Quetta High Court? Who was Balochistan High Court first chief justice? What is the name of first chief justice of Balochistan High Court?”
The Balochistan High Court holds a prominent place in Pakistan’s judicial system. Established to serve the province of Balochistan, it has a rich history marked by notable judgments and esteemed justices. Understanding the origin and evolution of this court offers valuable insights into the region’s legal heritage. One of the most significant figures in the history of the Balochistan High Court is its first chief justice, who left an indelible mark on the judiciary.
Who Was the First Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court?

The first Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court was Justice Khuda Bakhsh Marri. Born in a time when Pakistan was still finding its feet, Justice Marri’s career was a testament to his dedication to justice and the rule of law.
He was appointed as the Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court on October 21, 1970. He remained on the post until his elevation to Chief Justice of Pakistan Supreme Court on September 18, 1978. He retired on March 25, 1981.
Khuda Bakhsh Marri’s appointment as the first Chief Justice was a milestone in the history of Balochistan’s judiciary. He was known for his dedication to justice and his commitment to upholding the rule of law. His leadership set the tone for the court’s operations and established a standard of excellence that continues to guide the institution today.
In 1978, Justice Marri was elevated to the position of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, reflecting his exceptional legal acumen and commitment to justice. His contributions to the judiciary continued to be felt long after his retirement on March 25, 1981.
Balochistan High Court: An In-depth Overview

The Balochistan High Court is relatively newer compared to the other high courts in Pakistan. Before the West Pakistan High Court was formed on October 14, 1955, a Judicial Commissioner handled justice in the region. On July 1, 1970, this setup was dissolved, and a joint High Court for Sindh and Balochistan provinces was created. This joint court functioned until November 30, 1976. After that, separate high courts were established for each of the two provinces.
The Balochistan High Court was officially established on December 1, 1976. The first Chief Justice was Justice Khuda Bakhsh Marri, who was joined by Justice M. A. Rasheed and Justice Zakaullah Lodhi. Initially, the court had five judges, but today it has expanded to fourteen judges.
At first, the High Court was located in the current Sessions Court building on Zarghoon Road. In 1993, after the construction of a new building, the High Court moved to its present location on Hali Road.
Historical Background
The Balochistan High Court was formed following the formal amalgamation of Balochistan within Pakistan. Initially, the judicial system in Balochistan was part of the jurisdiction of the Sindh High Court. However, with the growing need for a dedicated judicial body to cater to the unique legal needs of Balochistan, the Quetta High Court was established.
Jurisdiction and Functions
The Balochistan High Court has extensive jurisdiction, including civil, criminal, and constitutional matters. It acts as the appellate court for lower courts in the province and has the authority to review and overturn decisions. The court also plays a vital role in interpreting the constitution and ensuring that laws are implemented fairly and justly.
Notable Judgments
Over the years, the Balochistan High Court has delivered numerous landmark judgments that have shaped the legal landscape of Balochistan. These judgments have addressed a wide range of issues, from human rights to economic disputes, reflecting the court’s commitment to justice and equity.
Infrastructure and Facilities
The Balochistan High Court boasts modern infrastructure and facilities that support its judicial functions. The court complex includes state-of-the-art courtrooms, libraries, and offices for judges and legal staff. These facilities ensure that the court operates efficiently and effectively, providing a conducive environment for the administration of justice.
Role in Promoting Legal Awareness
The Balochistan High Court actively engages in promoting legal awareness among the public. Through various initiatives, including seminars, workshops, and publications, the court educates citizens about their legal rights and responsibilities. This proactive approach helps to foster a culture of lawfulness and respect for the rule of law in Balochistan.
Notable Cases and Judgments
Over the years, the Balochistan High Court has presided over numerous notable cases and delivered landmark judgments. These judgments have helped to clarify legal principles and have provided guidance for future cases. The court’s ability to handle complex legal issues has earned it a reputation for excellence and integrity.
Challenges and Achievements
Despite facing numerous challenges, including limited resources and security concerns, the Balochistan High Court has made significant strides in delivering justice. The court’s achievements include the resolution of complex legal cases, the protection of fundamental rights, and the enhancement of judicial efficiency. These accomplishments have solidified the court’s reputation as a pillar of justice in Balochistan.
The Balochistan High Court, under the pioneering leadership of its first Chief Justice, Khuda Bakhsh Marri, has played a pivotal role in shaping the legal landscape of Balochistan. Justice Marri’s tenure set the foundation for a robust and fair judicial system that continues to serve the people of Balochistan. The court’s ongoing commitment to justice, legal awareness, and the rule of law remains a testament to its enduring legacy.
Sources: The above answer is based on information from
- About – Balochistan High Court Web Portal
- Former Chief Justices – Balochistan High Court Web Portal
- Balochistan High Court – Wikipedia
- Khuda Bakhsh Marri – Wikipedia
- Historical Records of Pakistan Judiciary
- Academic Articles on Pakistan’s Judicial System
- News Archives and Publications