The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has summoned the caretaker Prime Minister to attend the next hearing regarding the case of missing Baloch students.
The IHC’s move reflects the court’s escalated response to what it perceives as insufficient action by the government on enforced disappearances.
The high court expressed dissatisfaction with the ministerial committee’s report on enforced disappearances. Additional Attorney General Munawar Iqbal Duggal was called to the court hearing in response.
The bench announced its intention to summon the human rights minister, highlighting the judiciary’s proactive role in addressing issues typically within the executive’s domain. The court’s frustration was evident when it mentioned the possibility of taking the issue to the United Nations, thus potentially inviting international scrutiny.
Judicial Remarks on Forced Disappearances
Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani of the IHC voiced concerns over the gravity of the situation, rebuffing AAG Munawar Iqbal Duggal’s request not to summon the Prime Minister and other ministers. The bench stressed the importance of addressing the issue of forced disappearances, underscoring the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rights of the Baloch people.
The court granted a seven-day deadline for implementing its directives, signalling the urgency of the matter. The representative of the defence ministry was also called to appear before the court. Despite repeated pleas from AAG Duggal, the bench remained firm on its decision to summon the ministers.
Assistant Attorney General Usman Ghumman submitted the ministerial committee’s report to the court, which Justice Kayani found deeply unsatisfactory, describing it as a “shame for the court.” He emphasized that the Prime Minister and the Interior Minister, both from Balochistan, should recognize the seriousness of the issue concerning Baloch students.
In response to the IHC’s demands, a federal cabinet committee, led by the Interior Minister and including the law and defence ministers, reviewed cases of enforced disappearances. The committee, authorized to seek assistance from human rights organizations, reflects the government’s efforts to address the issue systematically. However, the court’s recent actions indicate a growing impatience with the executive’s handling of the sensitive matter.
