On Wednesday, the Islamabad High Court received news of Kashmiri poet Ahmed Farhad’s recovery after being kidnapped. The Attorney General for Pakistan informed the court that Farhad, previously reported missing, had been located and was now under the custody of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Police.
During the hearing regarding the poet’s disappearance, the Attorney General presented a report from the Dhirkot police station in AJK confirming poet Farhad’s arrest. However, the specific details surrounding his detention and the reasons behind his arrest have not been fully disclosed yet.
The court expressed relief at Farhad’s recovery, which had sparked widespread concern among literary circles and the public.
Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani presided over the hearing based on a petition filed by Ain Naqvi, Farhad’s wife. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan were present in court.
Addressing the law minister, the court questioned his stance, considering his appointment as a judicial assistant. The minister assured compliance with any court orders, leading Justice Kayani to observe that the matter seemed resolved with the minister’s presence.
Emphasizing national solidarity with the armed forces, Justice Kayani underscored the court’s expectation of institutions functioning within the confines of the law. He highlighted unanswered questions and sought clarity on the process when intelligence agencies detain individuals.
In response to the law minister’s mention of social media content, Justice Kayani clarified his detachment from social media and television.
Expressing a resolution to dispose of the case through consultation with Farhad’s family, Justice Kayani indicated the intention to refer the matter to a larger bench for consideration of broader issues related to missing persons.
