The Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued a contempt of court notice to the federal cabinet on Monday for failing to comply with judicial orders in the high-profile Dr. Aafia Siddiqui case. Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, presiding over the hearing, rebuked the government for its failure to submit a mandated report and warned that continued negligence would not be excused.
Court’s Stern Warning & Next Steps
The hearing was based on a petition filed by Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui, Aafia’s sister, demanding her release from U.S. custody, proper medical care, and repatriation to Pakistan. Justice Ejaz stated that the next hearing would take place after court vacations, clarifying that he could not proceed earlier due to an appeal filed by the government in the Supreme Court.
Judicial Frustration Over Administrative Hurdles
In a strongly worded statement, Justice Ejaz revealed that despite his judicial vacation beginning Monday, he had specially listed the case for hearing. However, administrative delays—including the chief justice’s refusal to sign a routine request—prevented proceedings. “Once again, administrative power has been used over judicial authority,” he lamented, vowing to “not let justice be defeated.”
A Call for Urgent Action
The judge emphasized the exceptional nature of Aafia Siddiqui’s case, calling her “the daughter of Pakistan.” With the federal cabinet now legally accountable, pressure mounts on the government to act. Will Pakistan finally secure her freedom, or will bureaucratic obstacles continue to delay justice? The world watches as this legal battle unfolds.