The Punjab Bar Council on Thursday suspended the license of Advocate Mian Ali Ashfaq for violating the lawyers’ code of conduct by appearing in court during an ongoing strike.

According to the Punjab Bar Council, disciplinary action was initiated against Advocate Mian Ali Ashfaq after he appeared in court despite a lawyers’ strike. The council said such conduct amounted to a clear violation of professional rules.

The Bar Council stated that the matter has been referred to its disciplinary committee for further proceedings. Officials warned that the action could lead to the permanent cancellation of the advocate’s license if the charges are proven.

The council further noted that appearing in court with private security guards was declared professional misconduct. This, it said, violated the established norms governing courtroom conduct

According to the Punjab Bar Council, statements made by Advocate Mian Ali Ashfaq against the lawyers’ community contributed to unrest and chaos within the legal fraternity, further aggravating the matter.

The Bar Council confirmed that action was taken under the Pakistan Legal Practitioners and Bar Councils Rules, 1976. A judgment was pronounced citing violations of Rules 134 and 175-A, which govern professional behavior and discipline.

Background

The development comes amid growing concerns over security and discipline in court premises. Earlier, on December 29, popular YouTuber Rajab Butt was injured after being attacked by a group of lawyers inside the Karachi City Court.

According to initial reports, Rajab Butt had appeared to seek interim bail when he was allegedly confronted and assaulted. Eyewitnesses said he sustained injuries to his jaw and mouth, causing visible bleeding, before police and court officials intervened.