In a recent development, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has asserted its commitment to addressing questions regarding spy agencies’ involvement in enforced disappearance cases, despite the “recovery” of missing poet Ahmed Farhad. The court rejected the government’s request to dismiss the petition until Farhad is produced in court, emphasizing the need to investigate those responsible for his abduction and illegal detention.
The court was informed that Farhad, although “recovered,” had been re-arrested in another case by AJK police. Additional Attorney General Barrister Munawar Iqbal Duggal argued that the case was now “infructuous” due to Farhad being in police custody. However, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani disagreed, insisting on holding accountable those responsible for Farhad’s disappearance.
The court also highlighted the need for clarification on spy agencies’ role in police investigations, emphasizing the importance of public interest in resolving cases of enforced disappearances. Justice Kayani called for a report on cases related to unknown persons in police stations and summoned the law minister, law secretary, and sector commanders of intelligence agencies for further inquiry.
Published in Dawn, June 1st, 2024