Legal associations across Pakistan are calling for the removal of Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar following his controversial remarks directed at human rights lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir. The incident, which took place during a court hearing on Thursday, has drawn widespread condemnation from bar associations and prompted accusations of sexism and judicial misconduct.
During proceedings related to a petition concerning the Exit Control List, Justice Dogar was reported to have warned Mazari of contempt of court proceedings and made threatening remarks, including saying he would “get a hold of her.” He later clarified that his comments were taken out of context and explained that he viewed Mazari “like a daughter,” attempting to counsel her as an elder.
Mazari, however, rejected this characterization, stating on social media that she is “neither his daughter nor a child” but a professional lawyer representing her client. Her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, corroborated her account, accusing the judge of lying about the exchange and engaging in misconduct.
In response, several bar associations issued statements condemning Justice Dogar’s behavior. The Lahore High Court Bar Association described his conduct as “dictatorial” and a violation of judicial ethics, urging the Supreme Judicial Council to remove him from office. Similarly, the Karachi Bar Association and Balochistan Bar Council criticized the judge for undermining the dignity of the court and intimidating members of the bar.
A group of female lawyers also signed a statement labeling the remarks “sexist and threatening,” noting that they reflect a “deeply patriarchal attitude” inappropriate for a member of the judiciary.
The controversy has raised broader questions about judicial conduct and the treatment of lawyers, particularly women, within Pakistan’s court system. Many are now looking to judicial oversight bodies to address what they see as a breach of professional and ethical standards.
