Court emphasizes urgency, directs commission to complete probe in four months
ISLAMABAD (Rizwan Qazi): The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has directed the federal government to form a special commission within 30 days to investigate blasphemy-related cases across the country. The court also ordered that the commission must complete its proceedings within four months, with the possibility to extend upon court approval if necessary.
Court’s Clear Instructions for Commission Formation
The ruling was issued by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, who emphasized the importance of ensuring accountability, due process, and protection of those involved in blasphemy-related investigations.
The Disappearance of Komal Ismail
During the hearing, attention was drawn to the disappearance of Komal Ismail, a key concern in the case. The Cybercrime Investigation Agency’s Additional Director informed the court that her CNIC had been blocked, with four SIM cards registered under her name. However, none have been active since November.
The court noted that the petition regarding Komal was filed on September 14, and she went missing in November 2024.
Authorities assured the court that Komal had not left the country and that her name is placed on the Exit Control List (ECL). Search efforts are currently underway.
Questions About Digital Evidence
Advocate Hadi Ali Chatha revealed that WhatsApp data for three numbers had been requested from telecom companies. However, company representatives stated that WhatsApp call detail records (CDRs) were not retrievable, and telecom CDRs are only available for up to one year.
Justice Ejaz Ishaq Khan suggested that if necessary, the ISI may be asked to assist the commission in acquiring sensitive data given the life-threatening nature of such cases.
Inconsistencies in Blasphemy Accusations
The case also involves a complaint by Shiraz Farooqi against Nek Muhammad, claiming that Iman contacted and “trapped” him. Upon investigation, no substantial evidence was found — only five pictures were retrieved from Nek Muhammad’s phone, which were used to file the blasphemy case.
Interestingly, Shiraz was found to have been in contact with the accused just one week before the incident, raising doubts about the complaint’s authenticity. Shiraz, however, denied any such interaction.
Final Verdict from the Court
After reviewing the facts, Justice Ejaz Ishaq Khan concluded that a commission is essential to ensure a thorough and unbiased probe into blasphemy-related matters. He stated that lives are at stake, and procedural fairness must be maintained.
The court officially ordered the formation of the commission within 30 days, with a completion deadline of four months, extendable if needed by court approval.