Police baton-charge, tear gas protesting lawyers near LHC

English , Latest - تازہ ترین , / Wednesday, May 8th, 2024

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LAHORE:
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed IG police on Wednesday to avoid aggression against protesting lawyers and requested the lawyer fraternity to resolve their issues with the LHC peacefully. Earlier today, police in Lahore baton-charged and used tear gas against lawyers during a protest called by the legal fraternity. A heavy contingent of police, supported by anti-riot force squads, were present outside the Lahore High Court (LHC) at GPO Chowk Mall road. As the lawyers tried to enter the high court premises, scuffles broke out between the law enforcers and members of the legal fraternity. Police resorted to using tear gas and water cannons in attempts to disperse the protesting lawyers. At least eight were arrested. Following severe shelling, the lawyers dispersed from the scene. Express News reported that the lawyers demanded the conducting of their general house session in the LHC premises, as a result, the lawyers tried entering the court. SSP operations Lahore Ali Raza said the lawyers resorted to violence first and started pelting the deployed police personnel with stones. He added they were in contact with the lawyers’ leadership to hold negotiations and amicably resolve the matter. LHC Bar Association Munir Hussain Bhatti condemned the baton charge, shelling, and arrest of the lawyers. Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) also condemned the happenings and announced a strike for tomorrow. According to Lahore police, SHO Ichhra, Inspector Akhtar Ali, Constable Subhan Ali, and many other policemen were injured as the lawyers pelted stones. A police spokesperson said the injured officers were undergoing treatment at Gangaram Hospital. The DIG operations directed providing the injured best medical facilities and treatment, adding, “Officers care less about their own lives.” He assured maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of citizens’ life and property.