The Sindh government has successfully ended the ongoing dispute with lawyers by transferring Hyderabad SSP Dr. Farrukh Ali Lanjhar. This decision came after sustained protests by the legal community, which had been boycotting court proceedings in response to actions taken by the police against one of their members.
Lawyers End Court Boycott After SSP’s Transfer
Following the official announcement of SSP Hyderabad’s transfer, the lawyers called off their court boycott and resumed legal activities. The Hyderabad District Bar Association celebrated the decision, with lawyers congratulating each other and chanting slogans in favor of their struggle’s success.
District Bar President Ashar Majeed expressed satisfaction over the transfer, emphasizing that their protest was not a personal attack on the SSP but a fight for the dignity and honor of the legal community. He acknowledged that their relentless efforts had finally paid off, as evidenced by the government’s decision to reassign Dr. Farrukh Ali Lanjhar.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict between the police and lawyers began last month when the Bhittai Nagar police in Hyderabad registered a case against Ali Raza Advocate. He was accused of forgery and fraud for allegedly using fake number plates on his vehicle. The police seized his car, which triggered strong backlash from the legal fraternity.
In response, lawyers staged a massive sit-in at the SSP Hyderabad office, demanding the immediate dismissal of the SHO of Bhittai Nagar police station and the transfer of SSP Dr. Farrukh Ali Lanjhar. The protestors viewed the case against Ali Raza Advocate as an attempt to target the legal community unjustly.
Sindh Government’s Intervention and Resolution
Realizing the escalating tension and its impact on the judiciary, the Sindh government took swift action to address the concerns of the protesting lawyers. The official notification confirming the transfer of SSP Hyderabad was issued, marking a resolution to the prolonged standoff between the legal and law enforcement communities.
This intervention by the government played a crucial role in diffusing the situation. With their primary demand met, the lawyers decided to end their protest and return to their professional duties.
Planned Protest Against Constitutional Amendment & Indus River Canal
Despite their victory in the SSP transfer case, the lawyers have announced another major protest. On the morning following the SSP’s transfer, thousands of lawyers are expected to gather at the Chief Minister’s House for a peaceful demonstration. This protest will focus on two key issues:
- The 26th Constitutional Amendment: Lawyers have expressed concerns over the potential legal and administrative implications of the amendment and are demanding a review of its provisions.
- The Canal Being Constructed on the Indus River: The legal community, along with environmentalists and local stakeholders, is raising objections to the construction of a canal on the Indus River, fearing its adverse effects on water distribution and ecological balance.
Sindh Police’s Stance on the Lawyers’ Protest
The Sindh police had previously responded to the lawyers’ demonstrations, stating that the legal community’s actions were affecting the image of law enforcement agencies. Some Hyderabad SHOs even requested leave in protest against what they described as unjustified pressure from the lawyers. However, with the transfer of SSP Dr. Farrukh Ali Lanjhar, the immediate conflict seems to have been de-escalated, allowing both parties to move forward.
A Victory for Legal Advocacy
The successful resolution of this dispute highlights the power of organized legal advocacy and peaceful protest. The legal community in Hyderabad has demonstrated that collective action and persistent dialogue can lead to meaningful change. While the transfer of SSP Hyderabad marks a significant win for the lawyers, their upcoming protest at the Chief Minister’s House suggests that their fight for justice and policy reforms is far from over.
With the Sindh government’s recent decision, a balance has been struck between law enforcement and the legal fraternity. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a fair and transparent system where legal rights are upheld without compromise.
