Karachi (HRNW) — A couple from Jacobabad who married by choice has approached the Sindh High Court seeking protection amid alleged harassment and fears of arrest. The court issued notices to the DIG Larkana, SSP Jacobabad, the concerned SHO and eight relatives.
The court also restrained Jacobabad Police from arresting the petitioners and directed authorities not to harass the couple.
Advocate Qambar Abbas told the court that Noor-un-Nisa and Abdul Wahab Kato entered into a marriage of their own choice. According to the lawyer, Barkat Ali Kato and his sons had registered a case against the couple.
The lawyer alleged that Jacobabad Police had been continuously harassing the husband and wife and threatening them with arrest and the registration of additional cases.
According to Qambar Abbas, the couple became distressed by the alleged harassment and travelled to Karachi, where they sought legal protection from the Sindh High Court.
The case highlights important human rights concerns relating to the right of consenting adults to marry by choice, personal liberty, protection from harassment and safeguards against misuse of police powers. The court’s interim order restraining arrest and alleged harassment provides temporary legal protection to the petitioners.
Support HRNW: Support independent reporting on human rights, justice and important national and international developments:
Support HRNW
Disclaimer: This report is based on court proceedings and submissions made by the petitioners’ counsel. The allegations mentioned remain allegations unless established by a competent court.
