HRCP condemns attack on Asma’s associates

LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has condemned an attack by lawyers on renowned lawyer Asma Jahangir’s associates inside a courtroom in the Lahore High Court. In a statement issued on Thursday, the Commission said: “HRCP denounces in the strongest possible terms the assault on Asma Jahangir’s associates. The most disturbing fact is that the group of 70 attackers comprised exclusively lawyers, a fraternity expected to facilitate the judicial process, not obstruct it in the manner demonstrated in the Lahore High Court on Tuesday. HRCP is particularly alarmed that the violent assault took place inside a courtroom. “

It said, “It is obvious that the attack occurred only because Asma Jahangir had agreed to represent petitioners against an influential lawyer, who also happens to be a member of Pakistan Bar Council (PBC). The PBC, of course, is the highest body regulating the conduct of lawyers in the country. Resort to hooliganism at this scale inside the LHC courtroom aimed at impeding the judicial process is a worrying new development, which, if not challenged immediately, will lead to those uncertain about the strength of their cases to try and overcome or eliminate their opponents physically and violently. HRCP commends the courage of Asma Jahangir’s associates, particularly Shabbir Hussain advocate, Usama Malik advocate and Noor Ejaz advocate who refused to abandon their professional responsibility in the face of a physical assault, profanities hurled at them and the vile and menacing attitude of more than 70 lawyers.”