IHC Warns Federal Govt Over Delay in Dr Aafia Siddiqui Case Report

 Islamabad High Court (IHC) has strongly criticized the federal government for its failure to submit a required report in the high-profile case of Dr Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist imprisoned in the United States. The court has warned that further delays may lead to contempt of court proceedings against the Prime Minister, federal ministers, and possibly the entire federal cabinet.

Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, while hearing a petition filed by Dr Fawzia Siddiqui, Dr Aafia’s sister, expressed deep concern over the government’s lack of seriousness and failure to provide a written explanation about why Pakistan has not taken legal steps in U.S. courts for Aafia’s release or legal support.

The judge noted that despite the court's earlier instructions, the federal government had not submitted a single document to justify its decision of not becoming a party to Dr Aafia’s case in the U.S.

He said, “If the federal government fails to present the report, the entire cabinet will be summoned. Why shouldn’t contempt proceedings be initiated against all federal ministers? This court can initiate action not just against the cabinet but also against the Prime Minister.”

The remarks came during a hearing on a plea that seeks the government’s official support for Dr Aafia in U.S. courts, either by filing a legal brief or providing diplomatic help. The petition also asked for reasons why Pakistan has remained inactive in this matter for so long.

During the hearing, Additional Attorney General Rashid Hafeez appeared before the court and requested five working days to submit the report. However, Justice Khan rejected the delay, stating that he would be on leave the following week and could not allow further postponement.

He gave the government three days to submit the required report and fixed the next hearing for July 21, 2025. The judge made it clear that excuses and verbal statements would no longer be accepted.

In an earlier hearing, the government had informed the court that it had chosen not to become a party to Dr Aafia’s case in the United States. However, no official reason or policy explanation was submitted in writing.

Justice Khan firmly reminded the government that decisions made by the cabinet or the attorney general must be justified with legal reasoning. “This is a constitutional court — decisions must be accompanied by reasons,” he stated.

The court had also instructed the government to explain why Pakistan was not taking action under international or diplomatic channels to assist its citizen, who has been jailed abroad under controversial circumstances.

Dr Aafia Siddiqui’s case has long been a matter of public concern and political debate in Pakistan. Many Pakistanis consider her imprisonment unjust and call for her immediate repatriation. Her sister, Dr Fawzia, has been actively campaigning for her release for over a decade.

Justice Khan also questioned a separate application that requested a meeting between Dr Fawzia Siddiqui and the Prime Minister. He remarked, “What will Dr Fawzia accomplish by meeting the Prime Minister? Is the Prime Minister not already aware of Aafia Siddiqui’s case?”

The Islamabad High Court has made it clear that any further delay in submitting the required report will have serious consequences. The next hearing is scheduled for July 21, and the government is expected to provide a full, written explanation of its position.

If the government fails to comply once again, the court may issue contempt notices, which could potentially result in legal action against top officials, including the Prime Minister and the federal cabinet.

This development has put significant pressure on the government to clarify its stance on Dr Aafia Siddiqui’s case. The court's strong words reflect the seriousness of the matter and highlight the growing demand for accountability, transparency, and action on a case that continues to draw national and international attention.

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