Enforced Disappearances

ISLAMABAD: On Tuesday, the federal cabinet formed a committee, led by the Interior Minister, to examine cases of enforced disappearances, specifically those under consideration by the Islamabad High Court (IHC). The law ministry officials presented the notification to the high court, outlining the committee’s composition, which includes the interior, law, and defense ministers.

The official notification, presented to the high court, revealed that the federal cabinet had sanctioned the formation of a three-member committee on November 07. This ministerial committee, chaired by the interior minister, will undertake a comprehensive review of enforced disappearance cases, as stated in the notification.

Notably, the committee is empowered to seek assistance from human rights organizations, signaling the government’s commitment to thorough and unbiased investigations into these cases.

By actively involving multiple ministries and facilitating collaboration with external organizations, the government aims to address and resolve the complex and sensitive issue of enforced disappearances. The formation of this committee underscores a proactive approach by the federal cabinet to address human rights concerns and enhance transparency in addressing cases of missing persons.

IHC Halts Proceedings in Cipher Case Trial

Meanwhile,

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has intervened in the ongoing cipher case trial involving Imran Khan, issuing a stay order against the jail trial until November 16.

A two-member bench, consisting of Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb and Justice Saman Raffat, delivered this decision during a hearing at Adiala Jail on Tuesday. Imran Khan’s legal representation was provided by Salman Akram Raja, while Deputy Attorney General Arshad Kiani represented the government.