Punjab Bar Council Restores License After Court Direction
The Punjab Bar Council (PBC) has restored the practicing license of Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq, legal counsel for prominent TikToker Rajab Butt, following explicit directions from the Lahore High Court (LHC).
The restoration came after the high court instructed the bar council to reassess the matter after hearing objections raised by the lawyer. Complying with the court’s order, the PBC reinstated Ashfaq’s license while simultaneously referring the issue to its disciplinary committee for further scrutiny.
The council is scheduled to submit a detailed compliance report to the Lahore High Court at 2pm today, outlining the steps taken and the legal basis for its decision.
Suspension Sparks Legal Controversy
Barrister Ashfaq had earlier challenged the suspension of his license by filing a constitutional petition in the Lahore High Court. The suspension had triggered debate within legal circles, with concerns raised over procedural fairness and due process.
The high court’s intervention proved pivotal, compelling the bar council to revisit the matter and issue a reasoned decision rather than maintaining the suspension without further review.
Rajab Butt Bail Extended Amid Ongoing Probe
Meanwhile, proceedings in the high-profile gambling app promotion case continue. A Lahore sessions court has extended the interim bail of TikToker Rajab Butt and social media personality Nadeem Naniwala until January 26.
The case is being investigated by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), which alleges illegal promotion of online gambling platforms through social media content.
Court Proceedings and Investigation Status
Additional Sessions Judge Mansoor Ahmed Qureshi presided over the hearing. During proceedings, the NCCIA’s counsel informed the court that the investigating officer was engaged in high court proceedings and requested additional time to submit the investigation record.
The court accepted the request, temporarily deferring further arguments. The attendance of both accused was marked complete, after which they were allowed to leave the courtroom.
Both Rajab Butt and Nadeem Naniwala appeared under tight security, reflecting the sensitivity and public attention surrounding the case.
What Lies Ahead
With Barrister Ashfaq’s license restored but disciplinary proceedings still pending, the case now moves on two parallel tracks — legal accountability for the accused social media influencers and professional review of the conduct of their counsel.
The Lahore High Court’s forthcoming review of the Punjab Bar Council’s report is expected to play a decisive role in shaping the next phase of proceedings.