HRCP voices 'grave concern' over assault on YouTuber Rajab Butt

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) on Friday voiced "grave concern" over the assault on YouTuber Rajab Butt during his appearance in a Karachi court.

The incident took place on Monday at the City Courts as Butt arrived for the hearing on his bail application in a case pertaining to hurting religious sentiments.

He was attacked on the court premises. His lawyer, Mian Ali Ashfaq, later said on X that “a few lawyers launched a life-threatening attack” on his client, adding that a case had been registered over the incident.

Reacting to the episode, the HRCP said it had “grave concern” over the reported violence against Butt at the court and the alleged role of members of the legal community in the incident, according to a statement shared on X.

Tweet by Human Rights Commission of Pakistan

"Violence, intimidation and vigilantism—particularly inside courts—undermine the rule of law and the right to due process," the HRC said, urging "a prompt, impartial investigation, accountability for all those responsible."

It also called for effective measures to ensure the safety of litigants, lawyers and court officials.