ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday expressed its concern over the government’s work in the missing persons case, observing that “people are missing and the state knows nothing about them”.
Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir made these remarks while hearing a petition by Farhana Barlas, wife of PTI International Media Coordinator Ahmed Janjua, against his disappearance.
Advocate Iman Mazari appeared before the court on behalf of Farhana Barlas, while Advocate General Islamabad represented the state.
The court was told that Ahmed Janjua was forcibly taken away by masked men in uniform at 4am on July 20. Mazari’s lawyer told the court that some officials were in uniform when asked if these police officials were in uniform.
The court noted that if necessary, the court would also summon the Attorney General of Pakistan.
Justice Tahir noted that [the police] also have CCTV footage.
Police officials informed the court that an FIR has been registered.
Justice Tahir noted that [enforced disappearances] were happening in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, now it has started in Islamabad. “The state knows nothing. what does the government do How much time is needed for Ahmed Janju to recover?
The court summoned the Attorney General at 12 noon and told us what to do and directed the Additional Attorney General to give full details of the case.
Justice Tahir cautioned another attorney general who is not telling the court that a report will be submitted. “How much time do you need to bring him [the attorney general] to court?”
Justice Tahir asked the Advocate General whether the IG Police is doing its duty? Why not issue him an exhibition notice?
Later, the court adjourned the hearing to 12 noon.
