ISLAMABAD – Information and Broadcasting Minister Attaullah Tarar has confirmed that the Pakistani government remains fully committed to providing continuous legal and diplomatic support in the case of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui. He clarified that comments made by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar regarding the matter were taken out of context, underscoring the government’s unwavering stance.
Mr. Tarar emphasised that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s direction, a special committee headed by the Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar has been formed. This dedicated panel will maintain close contact with Dr. Aafia’s sister, Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui, and coordinate all necessary actions towards her repatriation and welfare.
During a recent meeting, the Prime Minister personally assured the family that the government is “in no way negligent” in pursuing Dr. Aafia’s cause. He also confirmed that he had previously written to U.S. President Joe Biden to seek clemency and express humanitarian concern.
The intensified efforts come as the Islamabad High Court had issued contempt notices to the federal cabinet—including the prime minister—for failing to submit a report on Dr. Aafia’s health, legal standing, and prospects for release. Authorities later suspended processing of the notices pending procedural review.
Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a trained neuroscientist, has been serving an 86-year sentence in the United States since 2010, following her conviction on charges including attempted murder of U.S. personnel. She has been imprisoned for over 16 years and remains separated from her children.
Minister Tarar asserted that the current government’s engagement and advocacy far exceed efforts by prior administrations, with sustained legal outreach and diplomatic initiatives underway to secure justice and relief for Dr. Siddiqui.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.