The situation outside the Lahore High Court (LHC) turned violent as clashes erupted between lawyers and police during a protest against the transfer of civil courts to Model Town court. The protest began peacefully but escalated when police attempted to disperse the demonstrators.
Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court had ordered the relocation of courts, prompting lawyers to announce their opposition. When lawyers were denied entry into the Chief Justice’s chamber, tensions rose, leading to clashes with the police. Batons, tear gas, and water cannons were used by the police to control the situation, resulting in injuries to several lawyers and police officers.
In response to the clashes, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz directed the Inspector General (IG) Police to avoid using force against the lawyers and encouraged an amicable resolution to the matter. However, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations emphasized that the police would maintain law and order within the High Court premises and respond promptly if faced with violence.
Following the incident, the Supreme Court Bar Lawyers announced a nationwide strike for the next day, demanding the Lahore High Court Chief Justice to address the issue through reconciliation. The Islamabad High Court Bar Association also condemned the use of force against the lawyers and announced a strike, demanding FIRs against the police officials involved.