Islamabad High Court Revokes Summons in Organized Digital Fraud Case
In a surprising turn of events, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has decided to withdraw its earlier order summoning the directors general of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), along with the chairperson of the National Commission on Human Rights (NCHR), for a hearing scheduled for Friday. This decision comes amid a judicial inquiry into alleged organized digital fraud, shedding light on a complex and troubling case that has captivated the nation.
The Revised Order and Detailed Review
Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, in a revised order issued on the same day, stated that the personal attendance of the aforementioned officials seemed premature upon a detailed review of the case file in chambers after the hearing. This decision was influenced by the FIA’s revelation that no substantial evidence had been provided despite written requests to the Special Branch of the Punjab Police. The lack of concrete evidence regarding the central focus of the writ petition raised significant doubts about the credibility of the claims made.
Furthermore, discrepancies in the case, as highlighted by the modified order, cast a shadow of doubt on the validity of the allegations. The petition’s claim regarding the composition of the gang in question and the subsequent analysis of the FIRs presented a stark contrast, indicating a need for more comprehensive fact-finding and investigation.
Victims Speak Out
Over 100 victim families, represented by advocates Abid Saqi and Usman Warraich, petitioned the high court for the establishment of a judicial commission based on a report by the Punjab Special Branch titled “The Blasphemy Business.” The report alleged that a nefarious gang had been manipulating young individuals in blasphemy cases and extorting money from them under false pretenses. The victims, predominantly from poor and lower-middle-class backgrounds, have suffered immensely at the hands of this exploitative group.
The petitioners’ plea for justice sheds light on the harrowing experiences of over 400 alleged victims, primarily young men and women in their twenties or younger, who have been unjustly detained in various jails across the country. The alarming targeting of professionals, including engineers and Hafiz-e-Quran, underscores the ruthless nature of the perpetrators behind these reprehensible acts.
Seeking Accountability and Justice
Despite the petitioners’ efforts to engage the federal government and request the formation of an inquiry commission, no tangible action has been taken to address the grievances outlined in the Special Branch’s report. The lack of response from state authorities has prompted the victims and their advocates to seek redress through the judicial system, culminating in the unfolding drama at the Islamabad High Court.
As the case continues to unravel, the revised order and adjournment of the hearing until Friday raise critical questions about accountability, justice, and the protection of vulnerable individuals in society. The need for a thorough investigation, supported by concrete evidence and expert analysis, remains paramount in ensuring that the truth prevails and justice is served.
