Pakistani female lawyers condemn judge for ‘sexist, threatening’ remarks against Imaan Mazari

A group of prominent female lawyers in Pakistan has condemned Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar for allegedly making threatening and sexist remarks toward a human rights lawyer during a courtroom hearing, raising concerns over judicial conduct and gender bias in the country’s legal system.

The controversy erupted during a hearing on Thursday involving Advocate Imaan Mazari, representing activist Dr. Mahrang Baloch, in a case concerning the removal of Baloch’s name from Pakistan’s Exit Control List. Reports say that the exchange between Justice Dogar and Mazari grew tense.

During the proceedings, Justice Dogar allegedly told Mazari, “If I pass an order, Ms. Mazari will go downstairs [in front of the media] and say a dictator is sitting here.”

Mazari denied any wrongdoing, insisting her remarks were legally sound and did not overstep professional bounds. The chief justice reportedly responded, advising her to “keep your mouth shut and remain within the bounds of respect.”

The confrontation escalated when Justice Dogar warned of contempt proceedings and, according to reports, addressed Mazari’s husband, saying, “Explain to her. The day I catch her, she will find out.” Mazari responded that she was exercising her constitutional right to free expression and was prepared to face any proceedings if necessary.

In response to the incident, 11 female lawyers issued a formal statement on Friday condemning the chief justice’s remarks. “The comments by the IHC CJ are sexist, threatening, and unbecoming of a judge,” the statement read. “Courtrooms are not places for judges to display personal grievances; judges must dispense justice. Judges have a duty to act independently and impartially.”

The statement further criticized the remarks as reflecting a “deeply patriarchal attitude,” warning that threats of contempt should not be misused to intimidate lawyers. Quoting the British jurist Lord Denning, the lawyers reminded judges that contempt powers exist to uphold justice, not personal dignity or to suppress criticism.

The condemnation was signed by leading advocates, including Natalya Kamal, Rabbiya Bajwa, Ramsha Noshab, Zainab Janjua, Rida Hosain, Neha Touseef, Ramsha Banuri, Moniza Hina Kakar, Aaliya Zareen Abbasi, Aliza Masood Reza, Barrister Khadija Siddiqi, Fareeha Warraich, and Farah Khan.

The case itself was adjourned after the deputy attorney general suggested that petitioners first present their matter before the cabinet sub-committee, with the court directing authorities to provide relevant reports to the lawyers.