The Chief Justice of Islamabad High Court (IHC), Aamir Farooq, emphasized the fundamental right to peaceful protest during a hearing on the petition filed against the arrest of Baloch protesters. He firmly stated that Baloch protestors cannot be “forcefully” returned to their province.
Chief Justice Farooq chaired the hearing and ordered the IG Punjab to submit a detailed report on Baloch women in police custody. He asked for specific data on the number of detainees, those released, and any harassment incidents against female protestors in police stations. Expressing concern over the rise in street crimes in the capital, he criticized the police’s ineffectiveness, citing theft incidents affecting court staff members.
Proceedings and Commitment to Monitoring
In the hearing, the Chief Justice reiterated the importance of allowing peaceful protests and instructed the police chief to facilitate a meeting of the detained women with their counsels. He addressed the lawyer’s concern about miscommunication by the IG regarding women in custody, urging for clarity and correctness in proceedings. The IG Islamabad presented the latest figures, indicating the release of 19 women per the Chief Justice’s orders.
Chief Justice Farooq concluded the hearing with a promise of a detailed decision on the day’s proceedings and informed that Justices Gul Hassan and Inamul Haq would conduct the next hearing. He encouraged all concerned parties to stay informed and contact his office as needed.
