Islamabad, December 13, 2024: Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui, the sister of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, has revealed a startling development in her ongoing efforts for her sister’s release and repatriation. According to Fauzia, she was asked to withdraw letters she had written to the Army Chief and the Director General of ISI. The letters, which were returned with acknowledgment signatures, addressed Aafia Siddiqui’s repatriation.
The disclosure came during a hearing at the Islamabad High Court, presided over by Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan, concerning the case for Aafia Siddiqui’s release. Dr. Fauzia, along with her legal team, including Imran Shafique and Manawar Iqbal Dougal, appeared in court. Aafia’s U.S.-based lawyer, Clive Smith, participated via video link.
Dr. Fauzia informed the court that she had written to several high-ranking officials, including the President, Prime Minister, Chief of Army Staff, DG ISI, Ministry of Interior, and Ministry of Defense. She presented a record of these letters and their acknowledgment to the court.
She also raised the issue of her withheld passport despite having received a B-category visa. Justice Khan directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure the return of her passport and facilitate the issuance of her U.S. visa. The court ordered the Secretary of Foreign Affairs to submit a report on the matter.
Aafia Siddiqui’s U.S. lawyer, Clive Smith, reported that the Pakistani delegation scheduled to meet Aafia had arrived five days late, despite an eight-day schedule. Smith noted that no officials from the U.S. embassy had met the delegation, which included Senators Bushra Anjum Butt and Talha.
When asked if Aafia Siddiqui would meet the delegation, Smith confirmed that a meeting was scheduled for the morning. The court inquired about the status of Fauzia’s visa, to which a court assistant revealed that her application had been rejected on the day of submission. However, a representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that efforts to secure a visa were ongoing.
Justice Khan expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ handling of the case. He remarked that the delays were unacceptable, especially given the limited time available to the delegation. He also criticized the lack of coordination by the Pakistani ambassador in Washington.
The court directed the ministry to provide a detailed report on its actions and any assistance provided to the delegation. Justice Khan emphasized the importance of urgency, especially as Senator Talha mentioned plans to raise a resolution in Parliament regarding Aafia’s case.
The court ordered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to expedite the processing of Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui’s U.S. visa and ensure her passport’s return. The case has been adjourned for further hearing until next Friday.
