KARACHI (HRNW): In a decisive move to curb the misuse of legal professional identities, the Sindh Bar Council (SBC) has issued a mandatory directive to all lawyers across the province to remove professional monograms and nameplates from their private vehicles. The order specifically targets plates bearing terms such as “Advocate,” “High Court,” and “Sindh Bar Council.”
Context: The Customs Crackdown
The directive follows a major operation by Pakistan Customs and law enforcement agencies targeting Non-Custom Paid (NCP) and smuggled vehicles.
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The Trigger: Authorities recently intercepted several high-end, smuggled vehicles that were illegally displaying “Advocate” monograms to evade security checks and customs inspections.
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The Misuse: Investigations revealed that these plates were being used as a “cover” to transport non-duty-paid vehicles across provincial borders, damaging the reputation of the legal fraternity.
SBC Directive and Deadline
The Sindh Bar Council, as the regulatory body for legal practitioners in the province, has taken a strict stance to distance the profession from illegal activities:
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15-Day Ultimatum: All lawyers have been given a 15-day deadline to voluntarily remove these monograms and professional plates from their vehicles.
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Warning of Disciplinary Action: The Council warned that any advocate found violating this directive after the deadline will face disciplinary proceedings, including the potential suspension of their practicing license.
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Law Enforcement Coordination: Traffic police and customs officials have been authorized to take direct action against any vehicle displaying these monograms if they are found to be in violation of motor vehicle or customs laws.
Preserving Professional Integrity
A spokesperson for the Sindh Bar Council stated that the measure is necessary to ensure that the “Advocate” title is not used as a shield for unlawful acts. By standardizing vehicle identification, the SBC aims to assist law enforcement in identifying genuine tax-paying citizens and curbing the “VIP culture” that facilitates smuggling.
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