ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a detailed order in the ongoing case regarding the repatriation of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui from the United States. Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq criticized Pakistani officials, particularly the country’s ambassador to the US, for their lack of accountability in efforts to secure Dr. Siddiqui’s return.
During the hearing, Justice Ishaq questioned why the Pakistani ambassador did not attend crucial meetings with members of Congress that took place between December 3 and 11. The court directed the embassy to provide an explanation for the ambassador’s absence from these key discussions, noting that such non-participation hindered the efforts to bring Dr. Siddiqui back to Pakistan.
The court also remarked that avoiding such meetings due to concerns over it being perceived as interference in internal US affairs was against the law. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was instructed to obtain a detailed explanation from the Pakistan Embassy in the US and submit a report.
Additionally, the court inquired about the foreign trips undertaken by Pakistan’s prime minister and foreign minister since Dr. Siddiqui’s mercy petition was filed, seeking clarification on whether these visits had contributed to her case. The Foreign Ministry informed the court that no response had been received to a letter sent by the Pakistani prime minister to the US president regarding Dr. Siddiqui’s case. Justice Ishaq expressed dissatisfaction with this and called for more proactive efforts from both the embassy and the government.
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Dr. Fawzia Siddiqui, Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s sister, also raised concerns regarding her ability to advocate for her sister’s case. She informed the court that her US visa application had been denied and feared further difficulties in attending upcoming meetings scheduled for January. Justice Ishaq urged the Foreign Ministry to assist Dr. Fawzia in facilitating her travel and ensuring her participation in crucial discussions related to her sister’s case.
The court has set January 13 as the date for the next hearing, directing all relevant parties to present detailed reports on their efforts to address the matter.
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