Pakistan’s federal constitutional court has blocked contempt of court proceedings against the prime minister and federal ministers in the high-profile Dr. Aafia Siddiqui case.

A three-member bench of the Federal Constitutional Court, headed by Chief Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan, issued notices to the parties in the case of Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui and adjourned the hearing. The court stayed proceedings initiated by the Islamabad High Court, which had sought explanations from the prime minister and cabinet over the government’s alleged failure to support legal efforts in the United States for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui.

The federal government had filed appeals challenging the Islamabad High Court’s May 16, 2025, order and requested that amendments to the petition be declared invalid. Authorities argued that allowing amendments would exceed judicial powers and undermine the finality of settled cases. The government also maintained that reopening a long-resolved matter would violate legal principles, noting that the case involves foreign policy and international law considerations.

The amended petition sought constitutional recognition of government measures for the release and repatriation of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui. According to the federal government, in October 2024, the prime minister had sent a letter to the U.S. president supporting clemency, dispatched a high-level delegation to the U.S., and pursued agreements regarding prisoner transfer. However, American authorities did not agree to any transfer arrangements.

Also Read: Gold, silver prices rise sharply in pakistan’s local markets

The Federal Constitutional Court’s intervention temporarily halts Islamabad High Court actions, marking a significant development in the sensitive case that has drawn national and international attention. The matter remains under judicial scrutiny, and the parties await further hearings for final resolution.