SHCBA condemns attack on senior lawyer

Karachi: The Sindh High Court Bar Association (SHCBA) strongly condemned a brutal and cowardly attack on senior lawyer Khawaja Shams-ul-Islam.

Unidentified armed persons injured him with a gunshot after beating him up with iron rods and sticks.

SHCBA President Rehan Aziz Malik said in a statement that Shams was returning to his office on foot after offering Isha prayers when he was attacked and violently assaulted by a group of 15 to 20 individuals armed with guns, iron rods, and sticks.

“This unprovoked attack has left Mr. Shams with serious injuries, including a bullet wound, but thankfully he is stable and currently under treatment at hospital,” he said.

Malik said such an assault on a respected member of the legal fraternity is not only an attack on one individual but a grave affront to the entire legal community and the principles of justice and rule of law that we uphold.

“We are deeply disturbed by the increasing threats and violence against lawyers, who play an essential role in safeguarding the rights of citizens,” he said.

The SHCBA demanded that law enforcement agencies take immediate action to apprehend and bring to justice those responsible for this heinous attack. The bar called upon the authorities concerned for taking strict legal proceedings against the culprits to serve as a deterrent to any such acts of violence in the future.

It is imperative that authorities ensure the safety and security of legal professionals so they may perform their duties without fear or intimidation, he remarked.

He said the SHCBA stands in solidarity with Khawaja Shams-ul-Islam and his family during this difficult time and pray for his swift recovery. The SHCBA will not rest until justice is served, he said.