ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Friday ordered the federal government to submit an explanation for its continued refusal to cooperate with U.S. authorities in the case of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui.
Presiding over the hearing concerning Dr. Aafia’s potential release and repatriation from U.S. detention, Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan expressed strong disapproval of the government’s lack of transparency and failure to provide a detailed response.
During the session, lawyer Imran Shafiq represented the petitioner, while Additional Attorney General Rashid Hafeez and other government officials attended on behalf of the state.
The judge reminded the officials that, in June, the court had directed them to clarify their position regarding cooperation with U.S. legal proceedings related to Dr. Aafia. He warned that failure to comply could lead to summoning the entire cabinet for questioning.
Addressing the Additional Attorney General, Justice Ishaq said, “You have three days to produce the report.” When the AAG requested more time due to prior commitments, seeking a five-day extension, the judge noted his upcoming annual leave but ultimately approved the request, setting the new deadline for July 21 and adjourning the hearing
