PHC CJ says families suffering after disappearance of loved ones

PESHAWAR: Peshawar High Court (PHC) Chief Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim on Monday said the provincial government should take steps for the recovery of the missing persons.

The remarks were made during the hearing of a habeas corpus petition filed by Zarjan, the father of Ameen Khan, a resident of Karak, who has been missing for three months. The chief justice said that many families were suffering due to the disappearance of their loved ones and urged the government to provide relief to these families.

Zarjan told the court that his son was picked up from Karak and was currently being held at the Shakas Rehabilitation Centre, where he met his son twice. The man informed the court that Ameen Khan suffered from epilepsy and was unable to work. He said his son needed medical treatment rather than being confined.

Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim expressed concern over the issue of missing persons, said some individuals had been missing for over a decade.He urged the provincial government to take concrete action, especially for cases involving those who suffered from mental health issues. The chief justice said people with health issues should be provided medical treatment.

Ali Zaman Advocate appearing for the petitioner assured the court that he would bring the matter into the notice of senior officials.He agreed evidence should be produced before the court against the individuals accused of any wrongdoing. However, he noted that the provincial government’s authority was limited in such cases.

Deputy Attorney General Ubaidullah Anwar informed the court that he was unaware of the specific details of the case.The court directed the deputy attorney general to gather information about Ameen Khan’s condition at the rehabilitation centre. The hearing was adjourned until September 16.