The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued an order for the release of Shireen Mazari, a senior leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Mazari, a former human rights minister, was arrested by the Islamabad police last week following a raid on her residence. However, after reviewing the material related to her arrest presented by the police, Justice Mian Gul Hasan Aurangzeb of the IHC found that there was insufficient evidence to justify her detention.
During the hearing, Justice Aurangzeb noted that Mazari was in poor health and expressed his dissatisfaction with the report provided by the Islamabad police, stating that it contained no substantial information regarding her arrest. He also expressed his weariness with repeated references to Article 245 of the Constitution. Consequently, the court ordered Mazari’s immediate release and declared the district magistrate’s orders for her arrest null and void. The IHC further emphasized that Mazari would not be in violation of Section 144 of the Constitution.
The advocate general raised concerns about Mazari potentially expressing her views on the internet, referring to her possible engagement in writing and tweeting. In response, Justice Aurangzeb assured that he would address such matters in his written order as well.
During the proceedings, Justice Aurangzeb also commented on the arrest of PTI chief Imran Khan, implying that it reflected the government’s behavior. This observation indicates the broader context within which Mazari’s arrest was viewed by the court.
In addition to Mazari, the IHC also ordered the release of PTI Senator Falak Naz and overturned the district magistrate’s instructions for her detention.
The court’s decision to release Shireen Mazari highlights its commitment to upholding the principles of justice and protecting individuals’ rights. By carefully examining the evidence presented by the Islamabad police, the court determined that there was insufficient cause to justify her arrest under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order.
The news of Mazari’s release is likely to generate public interest and discussion, particularly within political circles. It underscores the importance of ensuring the fair treatment of individuals and upholding the rule of law, even in cases involving prominent political figures.