The lawyer representing six imams who are suing an airline and unknown "John Doe" passengers should be removed from his position as a New York City commissioner on human rights, said a state assemblyman.

"When it comes to suspicious or potentially terrorist activity, New Yorkers are encouraged to say something if they see something," said Rory I. Lancman, assemblyman from Queens.   

"Before they do so, I think they have a right to know that they won't be sued by their own human rights commissioner, Omar Mohammedi," said Mr. Lancman.   

Mr. Lancman has asked Mayor Michael Bloomberg to demand that Mr. Mohammedi to resign his seat. Stu Loeser, Mr. Bloomberg's spokesman, said Mr. Mohammedi is an unpaid employee on the commission and has the right to choose his clients.

Mr. Bloomberg in 2002 appointed Mr. Mohammedi to the commission, which enforces the city's human rights laws, holds hearings and investigates complaints of racial, religious and ethnic discrimination. It also is empowered to make recommendations to the mayor.