Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz today instructed the Punjab’s Inspector General of Police (IGP) to refrain from using force against protesting lawyers outside the Lahore High Court (LHC).
In a tweet, Nawaz emphasized the need to avoid confrontation to ensure the safety of Lahore’s residents. She urged the legal community to resolve their grievances with the LHC amicably.
The directive comes amidst escalating tensions outside the LHC, where hundreds of lawyers protested against the registration of cases under terrorism-related sections against their colleagues and the relocation of some courts. Clashes erupted between the lawyers and a heavy police outside the high court.
According to DIG Operations Muhammad Faisal Kamran, the lawyers attempted to storm the LHC. He confirmed the arrest of over 20 lawyers, who were subsequently taken into custody and moved to various police stations.
The incident underscores the complexity of the situation and the pressing need for dialogue and de-escalation between law enforcement and legal professionals to uphold public safety and the rule of law.