The Punjab Bar Council has suspended the law licence of advocate Mian Ali Ashfaq, who represents prominent Pakistani YouTuber Rajab Butt, following an incident at the Karachi City Court.
Zabihullah Nagarah, Chairman of the Punjab Bar Council’s Executive Committee, confirmed that the matter has been referred to the council’s disciplinary committee for further proceedings. He said the incident occurred when Ashfaq appeared in court with Rajab Butt during a lawyers’ strike, which heightened tensions on the court premises.
According to Nagarah, disputes arose after Ashfaq’s conduct toward local lawyers triggered objections. The situation later escalated into a clash, prompting the bar council to intervene. He added that Ashfaq attempted to enter the bar premises accompanied by private security guards, which violates the lawyers’ code of conduct.
The council stated that the advocate’s actions disrupted court proceedings and contributed to disorder among members of the legal community. On these grounds, the Punjab Bar Council decided to suspend his licence and refer the matter to the disciplinary committee for further action.
Separately, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) expressed serious concern over the reported attack on Rajab Butt inside the court premises. The commission said the incident occurred when Butt appeared before the Karachi City Court to seek interim bail.
In a statement, HRCP warned that violence within court buildings poses a direct threat to the rule of law and undermines citizens’ right to legal protection. The commission called for accountability and stronger safeguards to ensure security within judicial परिसरs.
The case has renewed debate over courtroom safety and professional conduct, with legal bodies stressing that adherence to ethical standards remains essential to maintaining public confidence in the justice system.
