Karachi, The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has proposed a collaborative conference among key parties as a forward step in the case of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, signaling a potential breakthrough in efforts to address her situation. The court’s suggestion aims to streamline communication and strategy among the involved parties, including legal representatives and government officials, to effectively advance Dr. Siddiqui’s case.
According to Aafia Movement, during a session presided over by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaque Khan, the court reviewed a constitutional petition by Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui. An update from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), dated April 5, 2024, was discussed, along with preliminary insights from Dr. Saif, a learned amicus curiae. Dr. Saif’s review highlighted a lack of definitive actions taken by the Pakistani government at the United Nations or in terms of treaty-based efforts concerning Dr. Siddiqui’s case. The court has requested further clarification from the MoFA on these points at the next hearing.
The session also addressed challenges in engaging U.S.-based Pakistani lawyers to assist in Dr. Siddiqui’s defense pro bono. Delays have been attributed to procedural clearances from the Ministry of Law and Justice and the Attorney General’s office. The court has instructed Ms. Janjua, another amicus curiae, to initiate contact with potential legal representatives in the United States, encouraging direct communication and support from the MoFA and Attorney General’s office pending a positive outcome.
The court emphasized the utility of a conference involving key figures like Mr. Smith, Dr. Saif, Ms. Janjua, and Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui to develop a concerted action plan. Such collaboration is deemed crucial for overcoming existing hurdles and facilitating a more coordinated effort in support of Dr. Siddiqui. The IHC has expressed its willingness to participate in or facilitate this conference, underscoring the non-adversarial nature of the case and the collective goal of assisting Dr. Siddiqui. The case has been rescheduled for May 10, 2024, by which time further progress is anticipated.