Renowned physicist and social activist Pervez Hoodbhoy urged the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar to investigate missing persons cases.
In a video uploaded on social media, Hoodbhoy lauded the recent actions taken by the CJP with regards to injustices being done across the country but pointed out that the issue of missing persons has not yet been probed into by the country’s apex court.
“I have heard you are a great man… you have targeted drug smugglers, pointed out problems with food hygiene and healthcare provided at hospitals. You are also involved in collecting funds for the construction of dams. The work you have done is not part of your job, but you have done so in the interests of the public,” said Hoodbhoy while commending the CJP for his efforts.
“However, in Pakistan thousands of people are missing, for many years in some cases and their families are extremely worried. Please think about them as well as this falls under the responsibilities of the courts.”
“Junaid Hafeez, who was a lecturer at Bahauddin Zakaria University (BZU) has been languishing in prison for the past 6-7 years. His case has not yet been completed and he has been languishing in prison since then. Although hearings are conducted, one reason or another prevents the case from moving forward,” said Hoodbhoy.
“And what of Asia Bibi or Mashal Khan? Mashal’s murders are free today, please look into the matter,” he added.
“Please don’t let past patterns repeat here. I urge you, the names and the incidents I have mentioned, please take a notice of them.”
“There is no need for a suo motu notice, since it is the responsibility of the courts to resolve these cases.”