ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court has allowed a citizen previously offloaded at an airport to travel abroad while questioning the Federal Investigation Agency over the legal basis for stopping passengers and placing their names on travel restriction lists.
Justice Raja Inam Amin Minhas issued the directions on Friday while hearing a petition filed by Rab Nawaz challenging restrictions on his travel.
Addressing the petitioner, the judge said he could travel abroad and that the court would address any attempt to prevent his departure. However, the court kept his petition pending.
Court Questions FIA’s Reliance on Internal Procedures
During proceedings, Justice Minhas asked the public prosecutor to identify the legal authority allowing the FIA to offload passengers.
The prosecutor said the agency acted under its standard operating procedures. However, the judge questioned whether internal procedures could override the law and noted that the Supreme Court had already issued directions concerning the issue.
Furthermore, Justice Minhas questioned how authorities could stop a passenger holding a valid passport, visa and return ticket from travelling abroad.
He warned that allowing government institutions to operate solely under internally created procedures could have serious consequences.
Judge Warns of Action Against Officials Over Unlawful Offloading
Justice Minhas said he would write to the Establishment Division secretary seeking action against officers found responsible for unlawfully offloading passengers, including possible consequences for their promotions.
Moreover, the judge said he could summon the FIA director general to explain which procedures the agency followed and their legal basis.
The court directed the FIA additional director to submit a detailed response.
Additionally, it ordered the deputy attorney general to appear fully prepared at the next hearing and assist on the legal questions involved.
The IHC adjourned further proceedings in the case until September 24.
