IHC Summons Police Officials Over Sheesha Cafes and HIV Concerns

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has summoned the deputy commissioner and the inspector general of police, Islamabad, in their personal capacity over a petition linking the unchecked spread of sheesha cafes in the federal capital to a reported rise in HIV/AIDS cases.

Chief Justice Sardar Mohammad Sarfaraz Dogar issued the written order on Friday, following a hearing held on Wednesday. The petition was filed by citizen Raja Abdul Jabbar.

What the Petitioner Argued

During the proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel, Advocate Mohammad Sohail Khurshid, told the court that a large number of sheesha cafes were operating within Islamabad’s limits, some with the required no-objection certificates (NOCs) and many without any authorization at all.

He informed the court that these establishments remained open throughout the night, hosting gatherings from the evening until the early hours of the morning.

The counsel claimed that the activities at these cafes were contributing to chronic diseases, including HIV. He cited remarks made by the health minister that allegedly linked late-night gatherings at such venues to the spread of the disease.

He further alleged that the relevant authorities had failed to take any action against cafes violating the rules and regulations.

Court’s Directives

The court issued notices to the chief commissioner, the deputy commissioner, and the inspector general of police, directing them to submit a report along with para-wise comments within seven days.

The deputy commissioner and the IGP were specifically ordered to appear in person at the next hearing.

The chief justice also directed that a copy of the petition be handed over to the law officer, who shall ensure compliance with the court’s order and assist the court on the next date of hearing.

The case has been adjourned until September 9.