Islamabad High Court Larger Bench Resumes Missing Persons Hearing

The larger bench of the Islamabad High Court resumed the hearing of missing persons, including professionals and students from Balochistan. The court dismissed the objection from the Ministry of Defence regarding its jurisdiction to hear the petitions.

The court instructed the heads of intelligence agencies to submit a report from the committee dealing with cases of missing persons. Additionally, the court required the Attorney General to appear in person for the next hearing, where he will be expected to provide legal advice and represent the government’s position.

Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani expressed concern about the ongoing enforced disappearances, despite the Attorney General’s affidavit, and questioned whether he should remain in office.

The court criticized the government for its failure to address enforced disappearances, particularly its lack of proactive measures and the absence of a comprehensive strategy. The court emphasized the need to declare enforced disappearances a criminal offence and urged the government to take immediate action.

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A three-member bench, including Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, and Justice Arbab Mohammad Tahir, heard the missing person cases. The court acknowledged the need to establish a procedure and issue appropriate directions based on the nature of the cases.

Furthermore, the court inquired about the progress of the commission on enforced disappearances and the constitution of a new committee comprising officials from relevant intelligence agencies.

Various cases of missing persons were discussed, including the alleged involvement of a missing individual in terrorist activities. The court called for reports and updates on these cases from relevant authorities, stressing the importance of transparency and accountability in the legal process and the need for regular updates to ensure the cases are being handled effectively.

The court also addressed issues related to the repatriation of missing persons and strongly urged for transparency and accountability in dealing with such cases, instilling confidence in the legal process.

Overall, the court underscored the gravity and significance of enforced disappearances and called for legislative measures to declare it as a criminal offense. The hearing was adjourned until after the summer vacation.

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