Twin cities paralysed: courts and daily life disrupted

Court hearings delayed

The roadblocks primarily affected access to the Red Zone, forcing the postponement of many cases, including Imran Khan’s defamation lawsuit against Khawaja Asif. Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Aamer Farooq was unavailable, leading to the cancellation of the day’s cause list for Courtroom No. 1.

The Toshakhana 2 case, presided over by Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand, was also postponed until November 29. The accused were expected to be indicted, but none could be transported from Adiala Jail due to the ongoing road closures.

Additionally, hearings related to prisoners’ rights to political discussions and an appeal by the Chief Commissioner and Punjab government were deferred. The appeals had been scheduled to be heard by a two-member bench led by Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz.

Lawyers and litigants struggle

Lawyers and litigants faced severe challenges in reaching courts, prompting the Islamabad High Court Bar Secretary, Shafqat Abbas Tarrar, to issue an advisory. He urged the judiciary to avoid issuing adverse orders against those unable to attend hearings due to restricted access.

Impact on Businesses and Offices

The protests and road closures left government and private offices with significantly reduced attendance. Commercial activities came to a halt, with major wholesale markets shuttered and streets across both cities deserted.

The ongoing disruption has not only paralysed judicial operations but also severely impacted daily life and economic activities in the twin cities. Residents await resolution as authorities work to address the crisis.