During a hearing on Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s repatriation case on Friday, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) raised questions regarding Pakistan’s recent extradition of Mohammad Sharifullah, an alleged Daesh commander, to the United States.
The court’s focus was on Dr. Aafia’s health and her potential return to Pakistan. The Additional Attorney General (AAG) appeared before the court, while Dr. Aafia’s sister, Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui, and her American lawyer participated via video link.
Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan questioned the AAG, stating, “You claim there is no prisoner exchange agreement with the US, yet you handed over an individual to them without any agreement. You were also allowed to provide an in-camera briefing on Dr. Shakil Afridi’s extradition.” The judge also pointed out that two declarations had been submitted, but despite the court’s request, the government’s response was unsatisfactory.
“Now the government wants to dispose of Aafia Siddiqui’s petition. AAG, are you suggesting you want to rid yourselves of this case?” Justice Khan asked.
He further highlighted that the prime minister had written the required letter and the necessary visa had been granted. “The whole world will see what the Government of Pakistan has done. What great achievements have you made? The Attorney General’s Office was instructed to provide recommendations to the government and update the court, yet now you’re asking for the case to be dismissed,” he remarked.
The federal government has filed a miscellaneous application seeking the immediate dismissal of Dr. Aafia’s release petition. The court has issued a notice to the petitioner and adjourned the hearing until March 14.
It is important to note that just two days ago, Pakistan extradited Sharifullah to the US after his arrest near the Pak-Afghan border. Sharifullah is accused of orchestrating the August 2021 attack at Kabul’s Abbey Gate, which led to the deaths of 13 American soldiers and nearly 170 Afghan civilians.
Meanwhile, Dr. Aafia continues to serve an 87-year sentence in a US prison, where she has reportedly endured severe mistreatment and inhumane conditions.
