ISLAMABAD – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has strongly criticized the federal government for its failure to act decisively in the case of Dr Aafia Siddiqui, particularly its refusal to support legal proceedings pending in a United States court.
During a hearing on Monday, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan expressed displeasure after an Additional Attorney General informed the court that the government had decided not to file an amicus curiae brief or become a party in the US court case related to Dr Aafia.
Court Demands Justification
Justice Khan rejected the explanation, calling it “unacceptable,” and directed the government to submit a detailed response by July 21. The judge remarked that decisions from the federal cabinet must come with written justifications. He also warned that the court may summon the Prime Minister and cabinet members if the directive is not followed.
Pattern of Delay
Earlier, the court had slammed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for not contacting relevant foreign lawyers even 12 days after the court’s order. Justice Khan had noted that the government appeared “helpless and clueless” in its handling of the case.
The court has been urging the government to play a more proactive role in efforts for Dr Aafia’s release and repatriation, calling its current approach disappointing and inadequate.
Mounting Public Pressure
The case has garnered widespread public attention, with rights activists and citizens repeatedly urging the government to intervene more effectively. Critics argue that the state’s repeated delays raise serious concerns about its commitment to protecting the rights of Pakistani citizens abroad.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.