By Digital Spartans 
The Lahore Bar Association has strongly opposed the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments and announced the possibility of a nationwide boycott of court proceedings over the implementation of mandatory biometric verification for filing cases.
The announcement was made during a lawyers’ convention held at a private hotel in Lahore, where legal representatives from different bar associations across Punjab gathered to discuss concerns surrounding recent judicial and administrative developments.
The convention was chaired by Irfan Hayat Bajwa and attended by a large number of lawyers and bar association officials from multiple districts of Punjab.
During the meeting, lawyers expressed serious reservations regarding the introduction of biometric verification requirements for case filings in courts. According to legal representatives, the move could create hurdles for lawyers and litigants while affecting the smooth functioning of judicial proceedings.
Participants at the convention also criticized the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments, arguing that certain provisions may impact judicial independence and the legal profession. Several speakers at the event called for wider consultation with bar councils and legal bodies before implementing major judicial reforms or administrative measures.
The legal community warned that if their concerns are not addressed, lawyers across the country could launch a broader protest movement, including a boycott of court proceedings. Such actions could potentially disrupt judicial operations and delay hearings in multiple courts.
Lawyers at the convention maintained that access to justice should not become dependent on complicated procedural requirements. They argued that biometric systems, if implemented without adequate infrastructure and safeguards, could create unnecessary difficulties for litigants, especially in areas with limited technological support.
The issue of biometric verification has become a growing point of debate within Pakistan’s legal sector in recent months. Supporters of the system argue that it can improve transparency and reduce fraudulent filings, while critics believe the process may create operational complications and restrict access to justice.
Observers say the latest warning from the Lahore Bar Association reflects increasing tensions between legal bodies and authorities over judicial reforms and administrative changes affecting the legal profession.
The convention concluded with calls for dialogue between the government, judiciary, and legal fraternity to address concerns through consultation rather than confrontation.
As discussions continue, legal experts believe the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether negotiations can prevent a wider protest movement by lawyers across Pakistan.