SHC angry on use of foul language by Hareem Shah

Orders TikToker to return home and appear before the FIA by April 18

KARACHI:

The Sindh High Court (SHC) expressed indignation over money laundering and use of foul language against law enforcement agencies (LEAs) by TikToker Hareem Shah.

A two-member bench comprising Justice Muhammad Iqbal Kalhoro and Justice Abdul Mubeen Lakho heard the petition against the FIA inquiry.

The petitioner's counsel stated that Hareem Shah was ill and in Turkey. Hareem Shah's lawyer submitted the medical certificate in Turkish language to the court. Justice Lakho remarked: "What is she suffering from?"

The petitioner's counsel stated that Hareem Shah was undergoing ileoscopy.

Justice Kalhoro remarked, medical certificate, submitted in the court is in Turkish language. "We don't know Turkish, do you?" The judge inquired the petitioner's counsel. At this, the petitioner's counsel stated that he also did not understand Turkish language. The counsel informed the court that doctors have advised bed rest to Hareem Shah. The court asked about how long it would take Hareem Shah to return to the country. The petitioner's counsel stated that Hareem Shah was unwell and it might take her 15 to 20 days to come back.

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Justice Kalhoro remarked that extremely vulgar language was used on social media against security and national institutions.

The petitioner's counsel contended that Hareem Shah had apologised for her statement. Justice Kalhoro in his remarks said that she should appear before the inquiry officer, otherwise the court would withdraw its order.

He said that Hareem was not involved in money laundering. Justice Kalhorro remarked that it was up to the inquiry officer to decide.

The court ordered Hareem to return and appear before the FIA. The court remarked that if she did not return and join the inquiry, the court would withdraw its earlier order which restrained the FIA from arresting her. The court ordered Hareem Shah to surrender before the FIA by April 18.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 9^th, 2022.