ISLAMABAD: In response to the recent police actions against lawyers in Lahore, the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) has called for a nationwide strike on Thursday. PBC Vice Chairman Riazat Ali Sahar strongly condemned what he termed as “police violence” against lawyers, denouncing it as a “brutal attack” on the legal fraternity.
According to Sahar, the police subjected lawyers to severe torture and made numerous arrests. He asserted that every individual has the constitutional right to peaceful protest, emphasizing that the alleged brutality by Punjab police against lawyers cannot be overlooked.
Expressing solidarity with their colleagues in Lahore, Sahar announced that lawyers across the country will abstain from appearing in courts. The Pakistan Bar Council also demanded action against the police officials involved in the alleged brutality.
Earlier in the day, clashes erupted between lawyers and police outside Lahore High Court during a protest against the transfer of civil courts to Model Town Court. The situation escalated when police attempted to disperse the protesters, resulting in several arrests and injuries on both sides.
The protest initially commenced against the Chief Justice’s decision to relocate courts, and tensions rose when lawyers were barred from entering his chamber. Police used batons, tear gas, and water cannons to control the demonstrators, leading to injuries among lawyers and police personnel alike.
The incident has sparked outrage within the legal community, with lawyers decrying what they perceive as an infringement on their rights and an attack on the sanctity of the legal profession. Calls for accountability and justice have grown louder, with demands for a thorough investigation into the actions of the police and appropriate disciplinary measures.
The strike organized by the PBC aims to draw attention to these concerns and to stand in solidarity with the affected lawyers. It underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the fundamental rights of citizens, including the right to peaceful protest and legal representation.
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