People from across the world mourned the sudden demise of Pakistan’s top lawyer and human rights activist Asma Jehangir on social media. Known as Pakistan's Iron Lady, Asma passed away on Sunday due to a cardiac arrest in Lahore.
She was not only a symbol of bravery and strength for the people of Pakistan but also an inspiration for women across the globe.
She headed the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and remained the Supreme Court Bar Association chairperson. She was also appointed as UN Rapporteur in the region during the 1990s. She remained in jail during the dictatorial rule of General Zia-ul Haq in 1983 for raising her voice for the democrats.
Human rights activists, politicians and many others took to Twitter to express their grief. Here's a look at a few reactions:
"Asma Jehangir's death is a loss of a strong voice for the marginalised and oppressed. Despite our differences I always respected her for her fight for human rights and for standing up for her convictions," former cricketer and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Imran Khan said in a tweet.
Teesta Setalvad: "In 2009 as Special Rapporteur Asma visited India. We organised a meeting in Ahmd with Survivors, lawyers, journos. Her report was outstanding."
British Pakistani novelist Kamila Shamsie: "Thinking of Nadeem Aslam’s line: Pakistan produces the most courageous people; but no state should require its citizens to be so brave. #AsmaJahangir"
Akhtar Mengal, president of the Balochistan National Party: "Aasma Jahangir was a woman of extraordinary determination.Her dedication to justice gave many people of Balochistan hope. A woman who fought patriarchy & non-democratic forces was truly what it takes to be an Iron Lady.Thank you Asma Jahangir. Balochistan is forever in your debt."
Shabana Azmi: "Just heard the devastating news that Asma Jehangir passed away.She was a friend for who’s values integrity and courage I have the deepest respect. Pakistan has lost its most fearless crusader and the human rights movement its tallest leader. Our deepest condolences to the family."
Lyricist Javed Akhtar: "Asma Jahangir , undoubtedly the bravest and the most resilient fighter for human rights who had the courage to face the wrath of the dictators and the fury of the fundamentalist Mulla has passed away . It is the loss of the whole Sub continent."
