Tensions are rising at Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) as lawyers representing dozens of arrested students were barred from meeting them at the Bakshi Khana (judicial lockup), drawing sharp criticism from legal and human rights circles.
Advocates Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha attempted to visit the detained students but were stopped at the lockup entrance by police officials. “Either our lawyers must be granted access, or the detainees should be presented in court,” the legal team asserted, expressing concern over the violation of due process.
Station House Officer (SHO) Mian Imran, who was present during the confrontation, offered a vague assurance: “I’ll try to arrange the meeting.” However, no concrete steps were taken to ensure legal access, fueling further outrage.
The students were arrested during a controversial early morning raid on July 29, when Islamabad police, reportedly acting on a request from the university administration, stormed the campus hostels. Around 60 students were taken into custody, though Imaan Mazari claims the actual number exceeds 72. The university had previously ordered the hostels to be vacated by July 13 for summer maintenance and alleges that multiple warnings were issued.
Police officials stated that the arrests targeted students who defied the university’s orders and resisted vacating. Charges may be brought against them, according to authorities.
The incident has sparked a broader debate on student rights, police overreach, and the administration’s handling of campus affairs. Legal experts are warning of dangerous precedents if students are denied access to representation or are prosecuted without transparency.
Related: QAU Hosts Gender Equality Session on Women’s Day 2025
As the standoff continues, all eyes remain on the Islamabad administration and QAU leadership to clarify their actions and ensure that the fundamental rights of the detained students are not trampled.