ISLAMABAD(National times)- Recognising the difficulties faced by overseas litigants in securing timely and convenient access to justice, the Chief Justice of Pakistan has taken notice of the matter and has established the Overseas Litigants Facilitation Cell (OLFC) with immediate effect. The OLFC, located at the Principal Seat of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, will be managed by the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) to the Chief Justice of Pakistan, said a press release. It is designed to serve as a dedicated point of contact, providing necessary support and facilitation to overseas litigants within the broad parameters of its mandate. For ease of access, the OLFC can be reached through a dedicated WhatsApp number (+92 326 4442444, messages only), as well as via an online portal available on the official website of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. The facility is intended solely for matters pertaining to the Supreme Court and does not extend to cases falling under the exclusive jurisdiction of other courts. For the purposes of the OLFC, the term “Overseas Litigants” includes any litigant residing abroad, regardless of nationality, who has a right to approach the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Subject to law and rules, the OLFC shall: Facilitate submission of petitions, applications, and grievances through digital means. Facilitate the processing of requests for early hearing before the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Provide case updates and facilitate the provision of certified copies of orders electronically. Maintain a digital record of all matters processed, with outcomes, and submit periodic reports to the Chief Justice of Pakistan. The OLFC will specifically deal with pending cases of overseas litigants under the appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. It will not, in any manner, entertain matters relating to other courts. This initiative reflects the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that access to justice is not hindered by distance and that overseas litigants can effectively pursue their rights before the Supreme Court of Pakistan.