Chief Justice Amir Farooq of the Islamabad High Court expressed his disappointment towards the police during a hearing on a petition against the raid at the PTI secretariat and subsequent arrests.
Allegations of Police Misconduct
The Chief Justice voiced his concern, saying, “This is becoming a police state where they do what they want. A state where things are not done according to law and rules.” This indicates growing worries about the abuse of power by these security personnel, which may violate citizens’ rights.
Legal Considerations and Detentions
During the hearing, he asked himself, “Should I order the registration of a theft case?” He also noted that authorities had arrested 12 out of 32 people present in the PTI secretariat while they had unlawfully detained the others. According to him, it was necessary to detain him legally before hinting that he would issue an order regarding those in illegal detentions.
Court Summons and Appearances
The court summoned DIG Islamabad Police alongside the FIA Director (Federal Investigation Agency)
Implications of Arbitrary Arrests
In a pointed query, Chief Justice Farooq asked, “Would they have arrested Advocate Ali Bukhari if he had been present there?” Advocate Ali Bukhari added that he was from the party secretariat. Highlighting the situation’s absurdity, the Chief Justice asked, “Did they need to drink water?”
Illegal Detention and Consequences
Chief Justice Farooq raised severe concerns about the illegal detention of those picked up during the raid. He questioned, “Did they keep all the people they picked up in illegal detention? What would be the consequences if they did?” He further speculated, “If I walk on the road tomorrow, will the police pick me up too
Handling of Seized Mobile Phones
The Director of Cyber Crime informed the court that they had ten individuals’ mobile phones and would return them. The Director of FIA explained that a technical analysis was necessary. In response, the Chief Justice stated, “If a lawyer advised this, should I revoke his license?”
Conclusion and Adjournment
Chief Justice Farooq ordered the belongings returned to their respective owners and subsequently adjourned the hearing. His remarks and directives during the hearing underscored the importance of adhering to legal procedures and protecting citizens’ rights from unlawful actions by law enforcement agencies.
