IHC orders to recover missing Kashmiri poet Ahmed Farhad by Friday

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a directive to the government to ensure the recovery of missing Kashmiri poet Ahmed Farhad by Friday, as ordered by Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani during the hearing of a petition seeking the poet’s recovery.

Kashmiri poet Ahmed Farhad, known for his defiant prose, was reportedly abducted from his residence last week, prompting his wife to file a petition in the IHC on May 15. She urged the court to take action to identify, investigate, and prosecute those responsible for her husband’s disappearance, with human rights lawyer Iman Mazari representing her in the case.

During the hearing, Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan assured the IHC judge of the government’s commitment to Farhad’s rescue and recovery, stating, “[We] will do whatever it takes. [We] will rescue and recover [Farhad].”

In attendance at the hearing were the interior secretary and Islamabad Inspector General of Police (IGP) Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi. Justice Kayani emphasized the importance of preventing further abductions in Islamabad, asserting that failure to recover individuals would reflect negatively on the state.

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The AGP requested time to ensure Farhad’s recovery, prompting the petitioner’s lawyer to inquire about progress made in the past six days. She stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “If the agencies don’t have him [Farhad], then he can be traced at least.”

Addressing the court, Justice Kayani expressed concern over the government’s handling of the matter, underscoring the need for swift action. The judge reiterated the court’s expectation of full cooperation from government officials, emphasizing that no one is exempt from appearing when summoned.

The court adjourned the hearing until Friday, with the defence secretary instructed to ensure his appearance at the next session. The judge emphasized the importance of ending the practice of non-attendance by government officials, asserting that everyone, regardless of position, is accountable before the court.