Tensions between lawyers and police in Hyderabad escalated on Friday as a sit-in protest by lawyers entered its second day.
The lawyers’ protest initiated over 17 hours ago in the Wadhu Wah area arose from a violent clash between police and lawyers, leading to major disruptions for commuters and transporters. This demonstration has obstructed traffic movement to and from Punjab and interior Sindh on the National Highway.
Meanwhile, lawyers in Karachi ended their protest near the KPT Underpass in Clifton, reopening the road for traffic.
What Sparked the Conflict?
The dispute began when Hyderabad police filed a case against a lawyer, Advocate Ali Raza, for using a hooter and fancy number plate on his vehicle. Lawyers accused the police of high-handedness, while the Sindh Police emphasized resolving the issue within the legal framework.
According to reports, Bhittia Nangar police intercepted Raza five days ago for violating traffic laws, including having a fancy number plate and tinted glasses. Raza allegedly abandoned his Mehran car, which was subsequently impounded and fined.
In response, a group of lawyers demanded the withdrawal of the case and the suspension of Bhittia Nangar SHO Asghar Tunyo. When their demands were unmet, lawyers stormed the office of Hyderabad SSP Farrukh Lanjar on Tuesday, staging a protest over 12 hours. The demonstration ended after negotiations led by Hyderabad DIG Tariq Razak Dharejo.
Police Response and Escalating Tensions
In a dramatic turn of events, over 10 station house officers (SHOs) and several other Hyderabad police personnel applied for a month’s leave, refusing to work under the current circumstances. DIG Dharejo visited the SSP office on Wednesday to address the situation, urging police officials to withdraw their leave applications and continue working within the bounds of the law.
Speaking to the media, DIG Dharejo confirmed that the Sindh Inspector General of Police and Home Minister had taken notice of the situation. He praised the Hyderabad police for acting patiently despite the violations of the law.
SSP Lanjar also addressed the media, stating that Raza was not the only individual booked for traffic violations. He revealed that around 50 FIRs were recently filed against individuals with fancy number plates, emphasizing that “no one is above the law.”
