Islamabad: Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) has stopped Islamabad High Court (IHC) from initiating contempt of court proceedings against Prime Minister (PM) and federal ministers in Dr Aafia Siddiqui case.

The FCC while issuing notice to the respondents in Dr Aafia Siddiqui case has adjourned the hearing of the case.

A 3-member bench of FCC presided over by Chief Justice Aminuddin Khan took up for hearing the appeal pleas filed by the federal government.

The federal government while challenging the May 16, 2025 order requested the court to nullify the permission for amendment in the petition.

IHC had sought explanation from PM and federal cabinet for not supporting legal efforts in US.

The federal government is of view the amendment in the petition constitutes judicial overreach and against the finality of settled cases. Reopening the matter which was disposed of after long period runs contrary to the legal norms;.

According to federation the matter is linked to foreign policy and international legal obligations.

It was requested in the amended petition that government steps in connection with release and repatriation be declared constitutional responsibility.

According to government the PM wrote letter to US president in support of mercy appeal in October 2024. A high level delegation was sent to US and efforts were made for repatriation of the prisoners. However US government did not show willingness on the agreement for repatriation of prisoners.