Service Matters in Pakistan Jurisdiction, Procedure, and Emerging Legal Issues
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59022/ijlp.612Keywords:
Automation, Algorithmic Bias, Civil Service, Statutory Jurisdiction, Pakistan, Administrative Law, Due ProcessAbstract
This study investigates the legal challenges arising from the integration of automated administrative decisions and artificial intelligence within the public service framework of Pakistan. By analyzing current federal and provincial statutory service laws, the research reveals a critical regulatory vacuum regarding algorithmic promotions, performance tracking, and automated terminations. The findings demonstrate that unregulated electronic systems introduce systematic regional and gender biases, while provincial service tribunals lack explicit statutory jurisdiction to review or overturn machine-generated disciplinary actions. This legal mismatch directly compromises the constitutional due process rights and fair trial guarantees of civil servants. Adopting a qualitative and doctrinal methodology, the study emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive legislative reforms, including the integration of transparent technical auditing protocols. This research offers a practical roadmap for lawmakers to establish mandatory electronic verification standards, ensuring accountability and protecting public employees from arbitrary automated decisions within the state’s evolving digital infrastructure
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