FCC halts contempt proceedings against PM, cabinet in Dr. Aafia Siddiqui case

The Federal Constitutional Court has barred the Islamabad High Court from initiating contempt proceedings against the Prime Minister and federal ministers in the Dr. Aafia Siddiqui case.

The case was heard before a three-member bench led by Chief Justice Aminuddin Khan, which considered appeals filed by the federal government. Notices have been issued to all parties involved.

The federal government challenged the May 16, 2025, order, seeking to nullify permission granted for amendments in the petition. The Islamabad High Court had previously asked the Prime Minister and the Cabinet to clarify why they did not support legal efforts in the United States.

The government argued that the proposed amendments exceeded judicial authority and violated the principle of finality in adjudicated matters.

It stated that reopening a case settled after many years contravenes legal norms and involves matters of foreign policy and international law.

The amended petition had sought recognition of the government’s constitutional duty to facilitate Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release and return to Pakistan.

The government noted that in October 2024, the Prime Minister had written to the US President supporting a plea for mercy.

A high-level delegation was also sent to the United States to negotiate prisoner transfer agreements, but US authorities did not agree to any transfer arrangement. Following the hearing, the Federal Constitutional Court adjourned the matter.