Raza Naqvi Attock
Tent display of solidarity, lawyers across Attock took to the streets today, demanding their rights and condemning what they describe as brutal treatment by law enforcement. The legal community asserts that their peaceful protests are integral to safeguarding democratic principles, yet find themselves facing charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) and numerous arrests.
Thousands of lawyers, undeterred by the looming threat to their liberty, gathered to voice their grievances against perceived injustices. President of the District Bar Association, Rizwana Raja, led the charge, emphasizing the profession’s commitment to upholding the country’s integrity while asserting their democratic right to peaceful protest. However, their efforts were met with a heavy-handed response from law enforcement, resulting in hundreds of arrests and ATA cases filed against them.
Rizwana Raja, speaking to the media, underscored the lawyers’ stance, stating that their sole demand is for the Lahore High Court to address their application. She highlighted the ripple effects of the legal community’s absence from court proceedings, citing the inconvenience caused to both clients and lawyers. With clients relying heavily on specific legal representation for their cases, the lawyers’ absence poses significant challenges for all parties involved.
The condemnation of police behavior towards lawyers was unequivocal. Rizwana Raja vehemently denounced the alleged brutality, urging the Punjab government to reconsider the situation and release the detained lawyers. Alongside her, District Bar General Secretary Malik Usman and Advocate Auditor Azhar Abbas Murtaza echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for a fair and just resolution to the ongoing tensions.
Conclusion: As the legal fraternity in Attock continues to mobilize in defense of their rights, the spotlight remains on the authorities’ response and the implications for democratic freedoms.
