Hadi Ali Chattha

HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDER

Country(ies) of nationality

Type of HRD

HRD's thematic area of engagement

HRD's bio and work: Hadi Ali Chattha is a Pakistani human rights lawyer and criminal law specialist known for his work defending individuals in cases involving serious human rights violations. He has represented victims of enforced disappearances, provided legal defence in blasphemy-related cases, and offered pro bono legal assistance to survivors of sexual violence and death row prisoners.

Country or area of detention

Region of detention

Geolocation of detention

Latitude: 33.48774994545164

Longitude: 73.04010841534337

Charge(s)

Sentence: On 24 January 2026, Imaan Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha were convicted under PECA provisions related to cyber-terrorism and false information over their posts on X. They were each sentenced to 17 years’ imprisonment and fined PKR 36 million.

Recent case update / evolution: On 7 July 2026, the Supreme Court of Pakistan heard the petitions filed by human rights lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha seeking suspension of their sentences. A three-member bench comprising Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan, and Justice Musarrat Hilali issued notices to the federal government and other respondents. The Court adjourned the hearing until 21 July 2026.

Allegations / reports of ill-treatment: Imaan Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha were arrested using excessive force while they were on their way to court. It was further reported that they were not immediately informed of the reasons for their arrest and were allegedly taken to an undisclosed location before being presented before the court.

Protection actions and campaigns

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