PBC announces nationwide strike against police’s crackdown over lawyer in Lahore

Lahore, Pakistan - The Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) has called for a nationwide strike tomorrow in response to police violence against lawyers in Lahore. This comes after clashes erupted between lawyers and police officers during a demonstration against the transfer of cases from lower courts and alleged terrorism charges against lawyers.
The protests turned tense as lawyers attempted to enter the Lahore High Court, leading to confrontations with police. Reports indicate the police used baton charges, water cannons, and tear gas shelling to disperse the lawyers. The clashes significantly impacted traffic flow around Mall Road and forced the closure of the Metro bus station at GP Chowk.
"In response to police brutality against lawyers in Lahore, the Pakistan Bar Council announces a nationwide strike tomorrow (Thursday)." Bar leader Ahsan Bhoon declared "No lawyer will appear in court, and rallies will be held across the country."
Lahore Bar Association President Munir Bhatti reiterated their demands for upholding the rule of law, ensuring access to justice, and maintaining an independent judiciary. He specifically called for the withdrawal of notices regarding case transfers and the removal of Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (Section 7ATA) from the charges against lawyers.
The situation remains tense as lawyers reportedly refused negotiations with police and vowed to remain at the High Court until their demands are met. While some lawyers have begun leaving courtrooms at the Lahore High Court, reports also indicate further arrests amidst renewed shelling and baton charges by police.
The PBC has called for the withdrawal of notices regarding the transfer of cases from lower courts to higher courts. They also demand the removal of Section 7ATA charges against lawyers, which they allege are being used to suppress dissent.
The nationwide strike called by the PBC is expected to have a significant impact on the country's legal system. With lawyers refusing to appear in court, many cases will be delayed or postponed. This could have a ripple effect on businesses and individuals who rely on the legal system to resolve disputes. The situation in Lahore remains fluid, with tensions running high between lawyers and police.