IHC Suspends Journalist Matiullah Jan’s Physical Remand in Narcotics Case

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Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Friday suspended the two-day physical remand of senior journalist Matiullah Jan, who faces charges in a terrorism and narcotics case widely criticized as “fabricated” and “politically motivated.” Jan was reportedly detained in Islamabad on Wednesday night, with his son claiming he was abducted by “unknown individuals.” The authorities later confirmed the detention and registered a first information report (FIR) against him on Thursday. The case took a contentious turn when Jan was presented before the Rawalpindi Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) the same day. Despite police requests for a 30-day custody, Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra granted a two-day remand. The development drew sharp criticism from journalists, human rights groups, and civil society, who decried the case as an attack on press freedom.

This morning, Jan’s legal team filed a petition challenging the remand. IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir presided over the hearing, ultimately suspending the remand. The court questioned the legitimacy of the charges, highlighting the need for due process and transparency in the investigation. The case has intensified concerns about the safety of journalists in Pakistan and raised alarms over alleged misuse of anti-terror laws to suppress dissent. Protests for Jan’s immediate release have erupted across the country, with prominent journalist bodies reiterating their call for press freedom and judicial accountability. Further hearings are expected next week as Jan’s legal team seeks to quash the charges entirely.