ISLAMABAD – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a show-cause notice to the federal cabinet for contempt of court in the Dr Aafia case. The decision came after the government failed to submit a report on its actions related to the repatriation of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui from the United States.
Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan, who presided over the hearing, expressed deep frustration over the lack of progress. The hearing followed a petition filed by Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui, sister of Dr. Aafia. She had asked the court to intervene and press the government for action.
The court had earlier ordered the federal government to explain its refusal to assist in Dr. Aafia’s legal case in a U.S. court. Despite this, no report was submitted. This prompted the judge to ask why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against all cabinet members, including the Prime Minister.
“If the federal government fails again, I will summon the entire cabinet,” Justice Ijaz warned.
Representatives in the courtroom included Additional Attorney General Rashid Hafeez for the government and lawyer Imran Shafiq for Dr. Fauzia.
The judge emphasized that justice would not be delayed, even if it meant working on a public holiday. He criticized the misuse of administrative powers to influence legal decisions and vowed not to let such interference affect the case.
Justice Ijaz also recalled how judges’ rosters had been used in the past to sway outcomes in sensitive cases. He stated that the dignity and independence of the high court must be upheld at all costs.
The court gave the federal government a final opportunity to submit the required report. Failure to do so may result in legal action against top officials.
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