Controversial Legal Action Against Lawyers Under PECA Act: 10-15 Lawyers Face FIR

ISLAMABAD:An FIR has been registered under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) against 10 to 15 lawyers in Rawalpindi. The case was filed by the traffic police at the Cantt police station, following an incident that took place after a lawyer’s violation of traffic laws. According to the police, the incident unfolded when a traffic warden issued a fine to a lawyer for not wearing a helmet and seized his motorcycle for failing to provide proper documents.

The situation escalated when the lawyer called other members of the legal community to the scene. Within moments, 10 to 15 lawyers arrived at the location. The police claim that the lawyers not only misbehaved with the traffic warden but also threatened him with dire consequences. A video of the altercation, reportedly recorded by the lawyers themselves, was later shared on social media, aiming to discredit the police.

The police have stated that a full investigation is underway and legal action will be taken against the individuals involved, according to the law.

**Reaction from Mattee’ Allah Jan:**
In a critical response, senior journalist Mattee’ Allah Jan pointed out that the FIR was filed under PECA against the lawyers at a time when both the Pakistan Bar Council and the Supreme Court Bar Association had recently supported the act and encouraged its use to file cases against journalists and others. He added that the two major lawyer organizations have been quiet when journalists were facing charges under PECA in the past.

“Now, when the same law is used against lawyers, it is an ironic twist. If lawyers and journalists do not hold their leadership accountable, there will be severe consequences for both professions,” said Jan, emphasizing the role of these legal and journalistic bodies in defending freedoms and rights.

The statement also highlighted the history of political influence on these organizations, with references to government-funded schemes and political ties. The critic further stated that if this trend continues, both the legal and media sectors may lose their integrity and credibility, jeopardizing public trust in justice and the free press.

**Ongoing Investigations:**
The police have assured that investigations into the incident are ongoing, and the individuals involved will be held accountable. As the case continues to unfold, it has sparked debates about the misuse of PECA and the role of legal and journalistic bodies in upholding justice and freedom of expression in Pakistan.