ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a show-cause notice to the federal cabinet for contempt of court in the Dr. Aafia Siddiqui case. Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan issued the notice during a hearing held on Monday.
The case concerns the health, release, and repatriation of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist imprisoned in the United States. The petition was filed by her sister, Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui.
Justice Ejaz expressed strong displeasure over the government’s failure to submit its report as directed. He noted that the federal cabinet had shown negligence and must now explain its actions to the court.
The judge also scheduled the next hearing for the first working day after the court’s summer break. He made it clear that justice in Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s case is a priority.
Justice Ejaz mentioned administrative delays, saying he had requested changes to the court’s cause list during the holidays. However, the changes were not processed in time. He stated that while the Chief Justice’s office manages the roster, he was willing to hear the case even during the recess.
He recalled that the court had previously seen special adjustments in rosters for other sensitive cases. Emphasizing fairness, he said he would not allow justice to be delayed or denied.
The judge also noted that the government has filed an appeal with the Supreme Court against his earlier decision in the same matter. That appeal is still pending.
Justice Ejaz referred to Dr. Aafia Siddiqui as the “daughter of Pakistan” and stated that her case holds special importance. He stressed that the dignity of the high court will be upheld and the law will take its course.
This latest move signals a firm stance from the judiciary. The court expects full cooperation from the federal cabinet in the upcoming hearings to ensure justice is served.Justice for citizens like Dr. Aafia remains a national concern. See how PM AJK calls Kashmir the jugular vein of Pakistan.
