ISLAMABAD -The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday expressed strong displeasure over the federal government’s continued failure to submit a report regarding Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s repatriation, warning that contempt of court proceedings could be initiated against the Prime Minister and members of the federal cabinet.
Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan was hearing a petition filed by Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui, the sister of the imprisoned Pakistani neuroscientist. The court had earlier sought a detailed report explaining the federal government’s refusal to assist in Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s legal matters pending before a U.S. court.
At the outset of the hearing, Justice Sardar remarked, “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?”
He further added, “This court is not limited to the federal cabinet alone — action will be taken against the prime minister as well if necessary.”
The court reminded the government that it had been asked to submit its response back in June but no compliance had been made.
Additional Attorney General Rashid Hafeez appeared before the bench and requested more time, seeking a week’s extension to file the required report.
However, Justice Sardar pointed out that his annual leave would commence next week, and urged urgency in the matter.
While the court eventually granted the government time until July 21, the judge’s stern remarks signaled serious consequences if the federal authorities continued to delay compliance.
During the hearing, petitioner’s lawyer Imran Shafiq also submitted a separate application requesting a meeting between Dr Fouzia Siddiqui and the prime minister. Responding to the plea, Justice Sardar questioned, “What will Dr. Fouzia tell the prime minister that he doesn’t already know?”
The court adjourned until July 21 and made it clear that any further delay could result in direct legal action against the highest offices in the government.
