The Islamabad High Court on Monday expressed strong displeasure over the government’s decision not to become a party in Dr Aafia Siddiqui’s ongoing case in the United States.

The court directed officials to provide a detailed explanation for the decision at the next hearing.

Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan presided over the hearing of a petition filed by Dr Aafia Siddiqui’s sister, Dr Fowzia Siddiqui.

The petitioner’s lawyer, Imran Shafiq, appeared before the court, along with the additional attorney-general and other government representatives.

During the proceedings, the additional attorney-general informed the court that the government had decided against providing legal assistance or joining the case in the US.

However, the court questioned the rationale behind this move.

Justice Ejaz Ishaq Khan emphasised that decisions made by the government or the attorney-general must be supported by clear and valid reasons.

The judge instructed the government to submit a comprehensive explanation for its decision not to become a party in the Dr Aafia Siddiqui case during the next hearing.

The court adjourned the matter until July 4.

“I am… a victim of injustice, pure and simple. Every day is torture… it is not easy,” she said, “one day, Inshallah [God-willing], I will be released from this torment,” Dr Aafia told the British broadcaster Sky News on January 18, 2025.

Last year, a clemency petition seeking her release was submitted to the White House. Before that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif requested that US President Joe Biden pardon and release her.