Rights activist and attorney Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir has formally requested the Islamabad High Court (IHC) registrar to preserve crucial CCTV footage. This request follows an incident involving her and IHC Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar.
Request for CCTV Footage Preservation
Mazari submitted her request online, declaring, “I am writing to request the preservation of CCTV footage from the Honourable Chief Justice’s courtroom no.1, dated September 11, 2025, between 9am and 11am.” She stressed the importance of documenting the exchange.
Additionally, Mazari asked for a USB copy of the footage to accompany her application.
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred during a Thursday hearing at the Islamabad High Court. Mazari was advocating for a client seeking the removal of rights activist Mahrang Baloch’s name from the Exit Control List. Chief Justice Dogar presided over the hearing.
Courtroom Exchange and Contempt Threat
During the hearing, Justice Dogar warned Mazari of potential contempt proceedings, suggesting possible action against her. Mazari defended her professional duties and expressed readiness to face contempt charges if necessary.
Chief Justice’s Clarification
The following day, Justice Dogar clarified that his remarks were misunderstood and stated there was no intention to pursue actions against Mazari. However, Mazari’s husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, who was present, contested Dogar’s explanation.
Justice Dogar likened Mazari to “a daughter,” explaining, “I was speaking to her as one would to a child, yet she did not understand. She repeatedly mentioned fundamental rights. Does this court not have any fundamental rights?” he asked.
Reaction from the Legal Community
Justice Dogar’s comments incited backlash from Pakistan’s legal community. Mazari labeled his statements as “sexist.” Numerous legal organizations and bar associations condemned the IHC Chief Justice’s actions, with some advocating for his removal.
Calls for Accountability
The Lahore High Court Bar Association strongly criticized the incident, stressing the need to honor lawyers as “officers of the court,” equivalent to judges. Key demands from legal groups include:
- An appeal to the Supreme Judicial Council to dismiss Justice Dogar
- Balochistan Bar Council’s support for removal actions
- Karachi Bar Association’s condemnation of the remarks and case management
