JIT head summoned in a case of missing person

The Sindh High Court (SHC) has summoned the head of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) for an explanation on a case of a missing person of Nazimabad.

A two-judge SHC bench, headed by Justice Naimatullah Phulpoto, heard a petition regarding the case of Musab, who has been missing since 2002.

The petitioner's family accused the investigating officers of non-cooperation and misconduct, alleging that the officers not only mocked their distress but also ridiculed their situation during JIT and task force meetings.

Despite the JIT's acknowledgment of enforced disappearance in Musab's case, the Sindh Home Department has reportedly hindered progress, adding to the family's suffering.

Justice Phulpoto assured the petitioners that the court would address the 'grave injustice'. He remarked that the court stands by the affected family and directed the JIT head to appear at the next hearing. The court postponed the proceedings until August 26.

Meanwhile, a separate SHC bench dismissed a petition challenging the transfer of 12 government officers of grade 20 from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Additional Attorney General Ziaul Haq Makhdoom argued that FBR officers do not have the right to directly approach the SHC regarding such matters. According to the law, these petitioners should seek redress through the Service Tribunal rather than civil proceedings.

The lawyer for the petitioners contended that the FBR had transferred the 12 Inland Revenue officers to various regions on July 3, 2024. However, Makhdoom clarified that out of the 12 officers, five have cases that fall outside the jurisdiction of the SHC.

The petition was filed by the 12 officers, including Nasir Janjua, who contested the legality of their transfers.