IHC CJ warns Imaan Mazari of contempt over ‘dictator’ remark

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfaraz Dogar on Thursday cautioned prominent human rights activist and lawyer Imaan Mazari-Hazir of possible contempt proceedings after she allegedly referred to him as a “dictator”.

The exchange took place during the proceedings on a petition seeking the removal of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) chief Dr Mahrang Baloch’s name from the exit control list (ECL).

As Mazari appeared on behalf of Dr Mahran Baloch, the IHC chief justice remarked: “If I issue an order in this case, MS Mazari will go downstairs and do a programme saying a dictator is sitting here.”

Mazari, who was bestowed with the WEXFO Young Inspiration Award at the World Expression Forum (WEXFO) in June, responded that she had said nothing outside the bounds of law. Justice Dogar replied: “You too should hold your tongue and remain within the limits of decorum.”

Mazari clarified that her comments were made in a personal capacity and should not affect her client’s case. “If you have prejudice against me, do not let it influence the case. I am here with a petition, not in my personal capacity,” she said.

The IHC chief justice remarked: “You commented that I am sitting here not as a judge but as a dictator. Should we not initiate contempt proceedings against you?”

Mazari replied: “I have not said anything outside the scope of the law and Constitution. If you wish to start contempt proceedings, go ahead. The Constitution grants me freedom of expression, and that is what I have exercised.”

Turning to Mazari’s husband and lawyer Hadi Ali, the chief justice remarked: “Mr Hadi, explain it to her — if she ever falls into my hands…”

Mazari retorted sarcastically: “If courts have reached the point of threatening lawyers, then please do initiate contempt proceedings.”

During the hearing, Deputy Attorney General Arshad Kayani told the court that the petitioner should first approach the federal cabinet’s sub-committee for removal of Mahrang Baloch’s name from the ECL.

The chief justice later directed the counsel to be provided with the relevant report and adjourned the hearing.

Quetta ATC extends remand of BYC leaders

Meanwhile, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Quetta on Thursday extended the physical remand of BYC chief Dr Mahrang Baloch and others for another 15 days on the police’s request, her lawyer said.

Advocate Israr Baloch told reporters that the detained BYC leaders were produced before Judge Muhammad Ali Mubeen of ATC-I, who granted the extension in physical remand sought by police.

Those presented in court alongside Dr Mahrang included Bebow Baloch, Sibghatullah Shahji, Gulzadi and Beberg Baloch.

The BYC, formed in 2018, has been at the forefront of campaigns against enforced disappearances in Balochistan.

Dr Baloch, a prominent rights activist, was taken into custody on March 22.

The arrest of Dr Mahrang Baloch under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) has been challenged in the Supreme Court (SC), with her sister filing an appeal against a Balochistan High Court decision that had referred the matter to the provincial administration