The sentencing of human rights attorneys Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha in Pakistan has drawn criticism from the United Nations, international legal bodies, and local rights groups. The couple was convicted in January 2026 under Pakistan’s Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act for social media posts critical of state institutions. Critics view this as a concerning crackdown on dissent and legal advocacy in Pakistan.
The couple received concurrent prison sentences totaling 17 years and were fined 36 million Pakistani rupees each. The UN Human Rights Office expressed deep concern over their sentencing, stating that criminal penalties for peaceful expression contradict international human rights law. The European Union and Amnesty International also raised alarms over the convictions, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression and fair trial standards.
International legal organizations, including the International Commission of Jurists, Lawyers for Lawyers, and the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute, jointly condemned the sentencing, warning of a chilling precedent for the legal community. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan described the case as indicative of a deteriorating environment for activists and lawyers dealing with sensitive issues involving state power, religion, or national security.
Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha, known for their work on blasphemy cases, exposed what they called an organized “blasphemy business group” in Pakistan. Their efforts to challenge this network faced significant risks, including mob violence and long prison sentences, highlighting the dangers associated with confronting blasphemy laws in the country.
