The Human Rights Council of Pakistan criticized the Punjab Bar Council for suspending lawyer Mian Ali Ashfaq’s license. This action was taken after Ashfaq represented a social media influencer, Rajab Butt, during a strike by the Karachi Bar Association. The strike was in protest against the alleged mistreatment of the association’s former librarian, Naseer Muhammad Kalhoro, leading to a ban on judicial proceedings in city courts.
The Human Rights Council of Pakistan emphasized that seeking legal recourse is not a crime and is a fundamental duty of lawyers. Punishing a lawyer for fulfilling this duty undermines the freedom of advocacy and justice system integrity. The Council called the license suspension a severe and disproportionate measure, questioning the autonomy of lawyers and judicial independence in Pakistan.
The Council urged the Pakistani government, Punjab’s provincial government, and relevant legal bodies to review the decision promptly. It stressed the importance of upholding lawyers’ rights and ensuring bar councils operate independently. Additionally, the Council plans to raise this issue in international human rights forums to safeguard legal freedom and justice in Pakistan.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan expressed deep concern over the reported assault on Rajab Butt within the Karachi city court premises. Butt was allegedly attacked during court proceedings related to a case accusing him of offending religious sentiments. The Commission denounced violence and vigilantism within court premises, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and due process. It called for a thorough investigation, accountability for those involved, and measures to enhance the safety of litigants, lawyers, and court officials in Pakistan.
