ISLAMABAD – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday sought explanation from the federal government after it declined to provide legal assistance or become a party in the ongoing case of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui in a United States court.
The matter came under scrutiny during a hearing on a petition filed by Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui, who raised concerns about her sister Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s health and urged for her repatriation to Pakistan before the Islamabad High Court.
Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan presided over the hearing, where the petitioner’s lawyer Imran Shafiq as well as an additional attorney general and other government officials were present.
During the proceedings, the court questioned the government’s refusal to engage in the legal case in the US. The additional attorney general informed the bench that a decision had been made not to become a party to the case.
However, Justice Khan sought an explanation for the decision, observing that, “Every decision made by the government or the attorney general must be supported by the reasons. This is a constitutional court. It is unacceptable to simply present a decision without providing justification.”
The court directed the government to present its reasons in the next hearing and adjourned the case until Friday, July 4.
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