Justice Kayani Urges Death Penalty for Enforced Disappearances

Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani of the Islamabad High Court has urged the implementation of a law that would impose the death penalty on individuals involved in enforced disappearances. This call came during a court session related to the disappearance of poet Ahmed Farhad Shah, as requested by his wife.

A special investigation team has been formed to locate Shah, who was allegedly abducted from outside his home. The vehicle used in the incident had obscured number plates, complicating the identification process.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the case's progress, the court questioned the lack of accountability for enforced disappearances. Justice Kayani highlighted the absence of positive responses from intelligence agencies to their inquiries.

Emphasizing the urgency for a Missing Persons Act, Justice Kayani stressed the importance of legislation to address enforced disappearances. He raised concerns about the safety of individuals, such as journalists and activists, who speak out on such issues.

Questioning the roles of relevant ministries, Justice Kayani demanded accountability from the Ministry of Information and held the secretaries of interior and defense responsible. He warned of involving the prime minister if necessary actions are not taken against the abductors.

Directing the Secretary of Interior to submit a report for the next hearing and summoning a Ministry of Defence officer for the following session, Justice Kayani adjourned the hearing until Monday for further proceedings.

Justice Kayani's call for stringent measures against enforced disappearances underscores the pressing need for accountability and legal frameworks to address such cases. The court's proactive stance in pursuing justice for victims like Ahmed Farhad Shah sets a crucial precedent in safeguarding individuals' rights and ensuring perpetrators are held responsible.