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IHC Postpones Hearing on Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s Health and Repatriation to January 20
Islamabad High Court postpones hearing on Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s health and repatriation until January 20, citing foreign policy and legal complexities. Govt directed to submit a brief on the matter.
MH
by Muhammad Hashir
2025-12-03
IHC Postpones Hearing on Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s Health and Repatriation to January 20

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday postponed the hearing of the case concerning the health and potential repatriation of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui until January 20, citing foreign policy and legal complications.

A four-member larger bench heard the petition filed in the IHC regarding Dr. Siddiqui’s medical treatment and repatriation. During proceedings, the court clarified that the original petition did not explicitly request repatriation. Meanwhile, the petitioner’s lawyer noted that a contempt of court petition had also been filed over alleged non-compliance with previous court directions.

Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir inquired whether Pakistan had any prisoner extradition agreement with the United States and whether this had been legally challenged. The court also questioned the US authorities’ response regarding medical facilities. While the US reportedly confirmed that medical facilities are available in the prison, permission for a doctor of choice could not be granted.

The Additional Attorney General informed the court that Pakistan had extended all possible assistance, including facilitating visas, but emphasised that the country could not interfere in another nation’s judicial process. Since Dr. Siddiqui is a US national, the matter falls under the jurisdiction of US courts.

The IHC directed the federal government to submit a comprehensive brief on the matter and adjourned further proceedings to January 20, 2026.
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