A Pakistani court has revoked bail and issued arrest warrants against prominent human rights lawyer Iman Mazari and activist Hadi Ali Chattha in a controversial social media case, intensifying concerns over a broader crackdown on freedom of expression and assembly in the country, according to APP.
The decision was handed down Thursday by the District and Sessions Court in Islamabad after both accused failed to appear during proceedings related to disputed social media posts. The court also terminated their right to cross-examine a key prosecution witness, further escalating the legal pressure on the defendants.
The hearing was presided over by Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka. Prosecutor Rana Usman represented the state, while the accused were initially absent. Defense counsel sought an exemption for Mazari, citing illness, while the court was informed that Chattha was attending a separate hearing at the Islamabad High Court.
The judge expressed displeasure at their absence, warning that continued non-appearance would result in the loss of procedural rights. When proceedings resumed later in the day, Chattha appeared but informed the court that Mazari wished to personally conduct the cross examination of prosecution witness Shahroz. The judge directed that the process be completed without further delay.
Islamabad District Bar Association President Chaudhry Naeem Gujar intervened, requesting a brief adjournment and assuring the court that no further delays would occur. The prosecution strongly opposed the request, insisting that the witness be sworn in immediately. Tensions flared during arguments between the bar president and the prosecutor, prompting the judge to temporarily leave the courtroom.
Following the break, neither Mazari nor Chattha appeared before the court. Citing their continued absence and alleged courtroom misconduct, the judge cancelled their bail, issued arrest warrants, and ordered their detention. The court also directed that statements under Section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Code be recorded at the next hearing and ordered that the accused be produced via video link.
The case has drawn sharp criticism from legal observers and civil rights advocates, who view the proceedings as part of an expanding pattern of legal actions against dissenting voices. Mazari, known for her outspoken defense of human rights and civil liberties, has previously faced multiple legal challenges linked to her activism.
As Pakistan grapples with mounting scrutiny over restrictions on speech and assembly, the latest court action is likely to fuel further debate over the balance between state authority and fundamental freedoms in the digital age.
