Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar's absence from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) hearing on the Baloch missing students case for the second time has sparked outrage and disappointment among activists and families of the missing individuals. This ongoing case, representing a sensitive issue in Pakistan, has attracted significant attention due to the continued disappearances of Baloch students and the lack of accountability.
The IHC summoned PM Kakar in January to appear before the court and explain the government's progress in recovering the missing students. However, on Monday, February 19th, he remained absent, citing his participation in the COP-28 climate summit abroad. This comes despite concerns raised by legal experts and activists that the Prime Minister, even in a caretaker capacity, is obligated to attend court proceedings when summoned.
The families of the missing students expressed immense disappointment at PM Kakar's non-appearance. Several protestors gathered outside the courthouse, holding banners and chanting slogans demanding justice and the safe return of their loved ones. Activists have questioned the government's commitment to resolving this issue, highlighting the perceived lack of urgency and accountability.
The issue of missing persons, particularly in Balochistan, remains a source of tension and instability in Pakistan. Baloch activists have long accused the security forces of involvement in enforced disappearances, a claim the government denies. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has documented hundreds of such cases in recent years, raising concerns about human rights violations in the region.
PM Kakar's absence from the court hearing has fueled these concerns further. Critics argue that his decision sends a message of disregard for the families' plight and undermines the judicial process. They demand immediate action from the government, including a transparent investigation into the disappearances and the release of all detained individuals without due process.
It remains to be seen whether the IHC will take further action regarding PM Kakar's absence. The next hearing for the case is scheduled for March 5th, and observers are keen to see if the Prime Minister will finally appear or continue to delegate responsibility. Meanwhile, the families of the missing students and human rights activists will continue to demand justice and hold the government accountable for its actions.