ISLAMABAD; Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has voiced strong displeasure over the federal government’s failure to submit its report concerning the release, health, and repatriation of Dr Aafia Siddiqui to Pakistan.
The court hinted at issuing contempt of court notices to the Prime Minister and the entire federal cabinet, even suggesting they could be summoned to appear in person if the government continued its non-compliance.
The remarks came during a hearing on the petition filed by Dr Fouzia Siddiqui, sister of Dr Aafia Siddiqui. Advocate Imran Shafiq appeared on behalf of Dr Fouzia, while Additional Attorney General (AAG) Rashid Hafeez represented the federation.
Justice Ejaz Ishaq Khan questioned the AAG about the report the court had previously sought, asking why the reasons for the government’s reluctance to assist in Dr Aafia’s case had still not been presented.
Expressing frustration, the judge warned that if the government failed again, the entire federal cabinet could be summoned. He further observed that the court was fully empowered to initiate contempt proceedings not only against the ministers but also against the Prime Minister himself.
The judge underlined that the court had directed the federal government back in June to submit a reply, yet no report had been furnished to date. He stressed that such disregard for court orders could not be tolerated indefinitely.
Granting the federation another three days, Justice Ejaz Ishaq Khan remarked that the report must be filed without fail. At this point, the AAG requested an extension of five working days. Accepting the plea, the court adjourned the hearing until July 21 but firmly reiterated that the report must be submitted by then.
During the proceedings, Dr Fouzia Siddiqui’s counsel mentioned that a miscellaneous petition had been filed seeking a meeting with the Prime Minister and members of the cabinet. In response, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan questioned the utility of such a meeting, asking whether the Prime Minister was already unaware of Dr Aafia Siddiqui’s plight.
Concluding the hearing, the judge made it clear that no further delays would be accepted. He directed the federal government to ensure that its report is produced in the next hearing on July 21, emphasizing that the matter could no longer be ignored or postponed.
