SHC seeks comments on transfer of Naqeebullah case

Grand jirga to continue its protest

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court asked on Monday the anti-terrorism court to explain its position on the transfer of cases against Malir SSP Rao Anwar to another court.

The SHC chief justice Ahmed Ali Shaikh gave these directions while hearing a petition challenging the transfer of Naqueebullah Mehsud's murder case.

Barrister Faisal Siddiqui, appearing for the petitioner, maintained that his client no longer trusted the ATC no. 2 because of its clear prejudice and discrimination in dealing with the cases.

"The anti-terrorism court has given extraordinary relief to Rao Anwar and others," he said, adding that bails were handed out despite their objections. The chief justice inquired about Rao Anwar's designated police station, on which barrister Faisal informed him of his suspension, claiming that the ATC has made amendments to its own verdict.



Barrister Faisal Siddqiui demanded that the high court stop all further proceedings by the ATC bench, but the chief justice remarked that the suspects have not yet been indicted. The court asked the ATC to submit its response by September 24, and issued a new notice to Rao Anwar.

Following the hearing, Naqueebullah Mehsud's father, and PTI leader Saif ur Rehman talked to the media. "Rao Anwar is not at all a suspect, he is a criminal who has murdered 424 people," said Rehman, accusing the provincial government of exercising its influence to protect the accused and announced that the grand Jirga would continue its protest to demand justice.

"My son was the nation's son and will continue to be so," said Naqueebullah's father as he clarified that no deals had been made with regards to the case.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 4^th, 2018.