Human rights activist Shamoon Jaleel (Lucas) has expressed concern over the government’s interference across all stages of the criminal justice system.
Speaking at a press conference held yesterday, his lawyer, Imthiyaz Fahmy said that police and judges are currently operating with bias and in violation of the Constitution and the law.
"It is deeply regrettable to have to say that those presiding as judges are not only disregarding the standards of human reason, but are also failing to adhere to matters clearly stipulated in the law," he said.
Imthiyaz further noted that the conduct of judges is eroding public confidence in the criminal justice system.
"Decisions based on a judge’s personal whims rather than evidence are actions that, instead of building trust, will further diminish the public's faith in our country’s justice system. I call upon the judges and everyone within the criminal justice system to put a stop to this," he said.
Imthiyaz also raised concerns regarding the manner in which police handled his client's arrest. He noted that although Lucas was arrested during a protest, he was standing aside on the pavement at the time of his detention.
The lawyer further highlighted that the initial allegations made against Lucas at the time of his arrest differed from later accusations. He noted that the later charges included allegations of assaulting a police officer.
"The police officers conducting these investigations do not have autonomy in these matters. It is a phone call from government officials, heads of ministries, or the President’s Office that dictates what must be written. When things are fabricated later, the truth becomes distorted," Imthiyaz said.
