Lahore: A Pakistani court has sought a reply from the Interior Ministry about the failure to implement its order regarding the release of foreign prisoners, including 33 Indians, who had completed their jail terms.
Justice Muhammad Yawar Ali of the Lahore High Court issued the order on Monday in response to a contempt of court petition filed by Awais Sheikh, the counsel for several Indian citizens imprisoned in Pakistani jails.
The judge directed a federal law officer to ensure the appearance of a senior Interior Ministry officer at the next hearing on June 20.
Earlier, Sheikh argued that the Lahore High Court`s Chief Justice had directed the Interior Ministry to ensure the release of all foreign prisoners, including 33 Indians, who had completed their prison sentences.
The order had not been implemented even after the lapse of six months, he said.
The wilful disobedience of the court`s order established contempt on the part of the Interior Ministry, Sheikh contended.
He said further detention of the foreigners would be in contravention of international laws and the Constitution of Pakistan.
Shiekh requested the court to direct the ministry to take immediate measures for the release of foreign prisoners and their repatriation.
PTI
