The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday ordered the immediate release of 10 brick-kiln workers who had been allegedly held in illegal confinement. The group included two women, four children, and four men.
Petition Alleges Unlawful Detention
Justice Jawad Zafar presided over the hearing of a petition filed by Mazhar Iqbal, who alleged that a kiln owner had unlawfully confined several workers and prevented them from moving freely. During the proceedings, brick-kiln workers’ leaders Muhammad Hussain Wattoo and Riffat Raja, along with women labour representatives, were present in court.
All 10 workers were produced before the court. The petitioner’s counsel argued that the kiln owner had been illegally detaining the workers for a considerable period of time.
Kiln Owner’s Defense
The kiln owner’s counsel countered the allegations, submitting that the workers had received advance payments from the owner and were working voluntarily under a mutual agreement between the parties.
Court’s Decision
After hearing arguments from both sides, recording the statements of the workers, and examining the available record, Justice Jawad Zafar ordered the immediate release of all 10 workers. The court ruled that the rescued individuals were free to go wherever they wished.
In a separate development, Nauman Yousaf has assumed charge as Commissioner of Lahore Division.
