Zabil Gahramanov is a human rights lawyer who has practised law for many years, primarily in western Azerbaijan.

As a member of the Ganja Divisional Bar Bureau, he has represented political prisoners, victims of alleged torture and individuals claiming that criminal charges or evidence against them were fabricated by law-enforcement officials. Gahramanov has publicly criticised unlawful police practices and interference with lawyers’ professional duties.

In May 2022, he alleged that police officers used force against him at the Ganja General Police Department after he requested a confidential meeting with a detained client. A medical examination reportedly documented injuries on his body, and he submitted a complaint to the prosecutor’s office. In June 2025, Gahramanov publicly criticised alleged unlawful conduct by police officers in Ganja.

Following a complaint by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Azerbaijani Bar Association suspended his licence for six months on 8 October 2025. On 23 October 2025, he was arrested on fraud and hooliganism charges. Gahramanov denies the accusations and maintains that he is being punished for his principled legal work and public exposure of unlawful police practices. International organisations recognise him as a political prisoner.