ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has directed the government to submit a written response to two declarations and an open letter concerning Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s case, which were presented to the court.

According to a statement by Aafia Movement, the constitutional petition was heard by a single bench led by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaque Khan. Advocate Imran Shafique appeared for the petitioner, Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui, who attended via video link, along with Clive A. Stafford Smith. Other notable attendees included Zainab Janjua, Barrister Munawar Iqbal Duggal, and several government legal advisors and officials.

The court highlighted a declaration by Mr. Smith, dated January 30, 2025, and an open letter by Dr. Omar Suleiman titled “Bring Dr Aafia Siddiqui Home – You Have Forsaken Your Daughter, It Is Time to Correct Betrayal.” The open letter features a quote from former US Attorney General Ramsey Clark, describing Dr. Siddiqui’s case as a severe injustice.

Furthermore, the court expressed concern over the absence of senior Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) officials in previous proceedings, emphasizing the need for higher-ranking officers to be present. It mandated the participation of the Additional Secretary (Americas) in future hearings, requiring advance applications for any exemptions.

The Additional Attorney General was instructed to file a written response to the declarations and the open letter two working days before the next hearing, scheduled for February 21, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.