June 7, 2024
Bilal Baseer
ISLAMABAD:
Islamabad High Court on Friday, June 7, disposed of the petition regarding the disappearance of poet Ahmed Farhad, with Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani stating that the family could approach the court again if necessary.
During the hearing, Justice Kayani announced his intention to write to the chief justice of Pakistan to form a larger bench for all missing persons’ cases.
Representing the petitioner, lawyer Imaan Mazari said that the anti-terrorism court in Muzaffarabad had rejected Farhad’s bail plea, which they plan to challenge in a higher court. She said that while initially one case was cited, another had subsequently been registered.
Justice Kayani observed, “It seems his troubles are increasing. But now it is confirmed that he is in judicial custody.”
Additional Attorney General Munawar Iqbal, who represented the state, argued that as per law, legal proceedings cannot continue once a person is recovered. He said the habeas corpus petition should be dismissed since Farhad has been recovered.
He added, the investigation aims to identify the kidnappers and Farhad’s statement under Section 161 had been recorded.
Justice Kayani instructed that on Farhad’s return, the investigating officer from Thana Loi Bher should record his statement under Section 164 before a judicial magistrate.
Justice Kayani concluded that the series of oppressions must end.