The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has summoned senior government officials over a petition concerning the growing number of Sheesha Cafe establishments in the federal capital. The petition claims that the unchecked operation of these cafes may be linked to a reported increase in HIV/AIDS cases.
Chief Justice Sardar Mohammad Sarfaraz Dogar issued a written order after hearing the case earlier this week. The petition was filed by citizen Raja Abdul Jabbar.
During the hearing, the petitioner’s lawyer, Advocate Mohammad Sohail Khurshid, argued that many Sheesha Cafe businesses are operating across Islamabad. According to the lawyer, some have valid no-objection certificates (NOCs), while others are running without legal approval.
The lawyer told the court that many of these cafes remain open throughout the night. He said people gather there from the evening until the early morning hours.
The petitioner also claimed that activities at these cafes could contribute to the spread of chronic diseases, including HIV. The lawyer referred to remarks reportedly made by the health minister, who allegedly linked late-night gatherings at such places with the spread of the disease.
The petition further alleged that the authorities had failed to take action against cafes operating in violation of the law. It claimed that many businesses continue to function despite lacking proper permission.
It is important to note that these claims were presented by the petitioner before the court. The court has not made any findings or confirmed any link between Sheesha Cafe operations and HIV/AIDS cases.
After hearing the arguments, the Islamabad High Court issued notices to the chief commissioner, deputy commissioner, and inspector general of police (IGP) Islamabad.
The court directed all three officials to submit detailed reports along with para-wise comments within seven days. These reports are expected to address the concerns raised in the petition.
The deputy commissioner and the IGP have also been ordered to appear before the court in person during the next hearing.
In addition, the chief justice instructed that a copy of the petition be provided to the government law officer. The law officer has been directed to ensure compliance with the court’s instructions and assist the court during the next proceedings.
The case has now been adjourned until September 9, when the court will review the reports submitted by the concerned authorities.
The petition has drawn attention to the regulation of businesses operating in Islamabad. It has also raised questions about whether existing rules are being properly enforced.
The court’s latest order does not determine the outcome of the case. Instead, it seeks responses from the relevant government departments before any further action is considered.
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The upcoming hearing is expected to provide more information about the legal status of Sheesha Cafe businesses in Islamabad and the steps being taken by authorities to regulate them. The court will review the official responses before deciding the next course of action.
