Anti-terror act: PHC questions inclusion of lawyer to fourth schedule

Notices issued to federal, provincial governments

PESHAWAR: The chief justice of Peshawar High Court issued notices to federal and provincial governments on Tuesday, seeking a reply on the inclusion of a lawyer on the fourth schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2014.

Waheedullah’s counsel Aminur Rahman told the bench the petitioner was a resident of Lower Dir and a lawyer who regularly appeared before the trial courts and PHC. Rahman said the police placed Waheedullah’s name on the fourth schedule.

The counsel said he was limited by the need to inform the Lal Qila police station, Lower Dir in case he wanted to leave its jurisdiction.

Rahman said a few days ago, Waheedullah was held at Lal Qila police station when he stated his intent to travel to Peshawar. He was released after he submitted surety bonds worth Rs3 million.

The petitioner’s lawyer added the local police was searching for a terrorist whose name was also Waheedullah who was involved in attacks on security forces. “But after failing to arrest or find [the suspected terrorist], the police included the petitioner’s name on the list.”

According to Rahman, an application had also been filed at the anti-terrorism court in Swat where all evidence was submitted. He stated after directives from the ATC, the security forces gave Rahman a verbal clearance but not in writing.

He argued Waheedullah’s appeal to remove his name was pending before the home secretary but so far nothing had been done.

After hearing the arguments, the court sought replies from the federal and provincial governments.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 27^th, 2016.