Rawalpindi Handcuffing of Women Suspects Sparks Lawyers’ Protest

RAWALPINDI: A controversy emerged on Friday after women suspects being transported between Adiala Jail and courts in Rawalpindi appeared with both hands secured in handcuffs, prompting protests from relatives and members of the local legal community. The initial account described the practice as unprecedented in the country’s judicial history, although no nationwide official record establishing that claim was cited.

The women said they remained handcuffed for approximately six to seven hours during the journey from the jail to court, their appearance before judicial proceedings and their return to Adiala Jail. They described difficulties carrying out basic tasks while restrained, including boarding and leaving police vehicles, using washrooms and adjusting their dupattas or shawls.

Some of the women also alleged that male police personnel physically assisted them while they entered and exited transport vehicles because their hands were restrained. They said the arrangement caused additional discomfort during transfers and argued that female detainees in Rawalpindi were being subjected to a practice they had not previously experienced while in custody.

The development triggered objections from lawyers in Rawalpindi. Senior lawyer Shan Zaib Khan said the handcuffing order had been issued by the city police leadership and argued that restraining women in this manner was contrary to constitutional and legal protections. He said lawyers were preparing to approach the high court against the official responsible for issuing the directive.

District Bar Association President Malik Sajid Tariq Awan also criticised the practice and said members of the bar were protesting against it. He indicated that the association could seek intervention from the higher judiciary if the measure was not withdrawn. The legal objections remain claims advanced by the lawyers, and the initial reports did not include a judicial ruling specifically addressing the disputed order.

According to the women, police personnel told them they were following instructions attributed to the Rawalpindi city police chief and feared employment consequences if they failed to comply. The initial reporting did not include a detailed formal response from senior Rawalpindi police officials explaining the security justification for the measure or whether it would continue for future court transfers.

The dispute places renewed attention on how authorities balance the secure transportation of detainees with their dignity and treatment while in custody. The immediate next steps are expected to include possible legal proceedings by bar representatives and clarification from police authorities over the scope and legal basis of the reported order. Any court intervention or change in police instructions could determine whether women suspects continue to be handcuffed during transfers between Adiala Jail and Rawalpindi courts.