Karachi: Lawyers and police clashed on Saturday at the Sindh High Court (SHC). The confrontation occurred after the court administration barred a lawyers’ convention against the 27th Constitutional Amendment.
Earlier, the SHC administration denied permission for the event. Consequently, Sindh High Court Bar Association President, Barrister Mohammad Sarfaraz Ali Metlo, formally cancelled it.
Despite the cancellation, lawyers decided to hold the convention outside the SHC. They then organised a rally and marched toward the court.
However, a heavy police contingent blocked their entry. This led to a physical scuffle as lawyers tried to push through. Reports claim that protesters manhandled several police officers, including the Preedy Police Station SHO. As tensions escalated, some officers retreated from the scene.
Ultimately, the lawyers forced their way inside. They proceeded with their convention in the SHC’s New Bar Room. Previously, the court administration had restricted access to this area.
Read: Justice Panhwa Warns 27th Amendment Threatens Judicial Independence
This local protest connects to a larger national movement. Specifically, the opposition alliance Tehreek-e-Tahafuz Ayen-e-Pakistan (TTAP) is organising countrywide demonstrations.
For instance, the alliance recently held a meeting in the capital. Furthermore, they staged a protest walk from Parliament to the Supreme Court. TTAP has also pledged full support for the lawyers’ movement and plans to observe a nationwide “Black Day” this Friday.
TTAP and the protesting lawyers strongly oppose the 27th Amendment. They argue that it attacks the basic structure of Pakistan’s Constitution. Moreover, they contend the amendment weakens the judiciary by placing it under executive administration. As a result, a resolution against it is expected in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly.
