The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday reserved its verdict in the Muhammad Ali Mirza case, which challenges the Council of Islamic Ideology’s (CII) opinion declaring the engineer guilty of blasphemy.
Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani presided over the hearing. Advocate Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Ayubi represented the petitioner, Dr. Aslam Khaki. During proceedings, the CII submitted an incomplete response, prompting the court to direct the council to file a full reply and clarify its jurisdiction in the matter.
Justice Kayani questioned the CII’s authority, noting that it is an advisory body. He asked, “Does the Council of Islamic Ideology have the authority to give opinions to anyone other than the parliament, the president, or the provincial governors?” The court observed that the council’s opinion on Mirza may exceed its constitutional mandate.
The judge also referred to the 27th Constitutional Amendment, suggesting that the amendment could potentially expand the CII’s powers in the future. He added that the verdict in the Muhammad Ali Mirza case could be announced later this month, but warned that post-amendment, the court’s authority might be limited.
CII officials informed the court that the chairman’s position is currently vacant. They requested more time to submit a comprehensive response once a new chairman is appointed. A recommendation for the appointment has reportedly been sent, and the post is expected to be filled soon.
Case Background
The Muhammad Ali Mirza case stems from a petition challenging the CII’s opinion that Mirza committed blasphemy. The council reviewed materials provided by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency, including case documents and religious opinions, before issuing its recommendation.
Mirza was detained in August under public order laws and subsequently charged under blasphemy provisions for allegedly making controversial remarks. The CII concluded that his statements were blasphemous and suggested charges under Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code.
The IHC has adjourned further proceedings until December 4, leaving the final verdict pending on the Muhammad Ali Mirza case.
In other news read more about: CII Declares Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza Guilty of Blasphemy; What Comes Next?
