Chief Justice Aamir Farooq of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) emphasized the right to peaceful protest, stating that Baloch protestors should not be forcibly sent back to their province.
The court, during a hearing on a petition against the arrest of Baloch protesters, directed the Inspector General (IG) of Punjab to submit a detailed written report on Baloch women in police custody.
Expressing concern over rising street crimes in the capital, Chief Justice Farooq criticized the IG Punjab for the police’s failure to effectively fulfill their duties in Islamabad.
The Chief Justice instructed the IG to provide data on the number of detainees, releases, and any harassment incidents involving female protestors in police custody. He highlighted instances where court staff members were victims of theft.
Chief Justice Farooq affirmed the right to peaceful protest and directed the police chief to facilitate a meeting between the women protesters and their counsels.
The IG Islamabad provided updated figures, indicating 216 individuals in custody, with 34 in judicial custody and 1 under physical remand. Nineteen women were released as per the Chief Justice’s orders.
The lawyer criticized the IG’s earlier miscommunication about women in police custody, seeking contempt proceedings against him.
Chief Justice Farooq assured close monitoring of the situation and concluded the hearing by announcing that a detailed decision on the proceedings would be issued soon. Justices Gul Hassan and Inamul Haq were slated to conduct the next week’s hearing, with the Chief Justice urging concerned parties to stay informed and contact his office if needed.
