ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Friday directed the Pakistani government to state in an amicus brief that it has no objection to the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, should legal actions in the United States result in such an outcome.
A single bench led by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaque Khan was hearing a constitutional petition filed by Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui concerning the release of her sister, Dr. Aafia Siddiqui. The case has garnered significant attention due to the international legal implications and humanitarian concerns surrounding Dr. Siddiqui’s imprisonment in the United States.
During the proceedings, Imran Shafique, the attorney representing Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui, informed the media that several participants joined via video link, including Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s American lawyer, Clive Smith, along with Maria Kari and Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui herself. Tania Siddiqui was also present, and the Deputy Attorney General represented the Pakistani government.
The court’s directive came after noting that the government had previously expressed similar sentiments in an earlier amicus brief, which undermined the government’s current claims of potential legal complications. Justice Khan emphasized the need for clarity in the government’s stance, instructing the government lawyer to formally submit their position by the following Wednesday.
This development marks a critical juncture in the ongoing legal efforts to secure Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release, with the court demonstrating a proactive approach to ensuring the government’s cooperation in the matter.