Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Sardar Sarfaraz Dogar has issued a clarification regarding his recent remarks about lawyer and activist Imaan Mazari, stressing that his words were misunderstood and taken out of context.
During a court hearing, Chief Justice Dogar explained that he never said he would “catch” Imaan Mazari, as reported on social media. Instead, he emphasized that his remarks were made in his role as a judge and as an elder.
“Imaan Mazari is like my daughters. I was explaining to her yesterday as the chief justice and as an elder,” Dogar said.
Courtroom exchange misinterpreted
The Chief Justice stated that his comments were wrongly circulated online. He clarified that his reference to “catching” someone was actually directed toward Mazari’s husband, Hadi Chattha, who was present in court.
“I told him, get hold of her and take her away, otherwise I will take contempt of court action,” Dogar explained. He added that the intent was advisory, not threatening.
Concern over contempt action
Justice Dogar highlighted the seriousness of contempt proceedings, noting that such an action could harm the career of a young lawyer like Imaan Mazari. “If contempt action is taken, her career will be ruined,” he remarked.
The Chief Justice further said that he had repeatedly reminded Mazari about respecting the judiciary while discussing fundamental rights. “I explained to her like a child, but she was not understanding,” he noted.
Emphasis on judicial respect
Dogar stressed that his purpose was to guide rather than confront. “My words were misinterpreted, and a storm was created,” he said. He added that fundamental rights apply to all, including the judiciary, and urged lawyers to maintain courtroom decorum while raising concerns.
The clarification comes after widespread debate on social media regarding the exchange between Justice Dogar and Imaan Mazari during the hearing.
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