IHC issues order to release prisoners amid coronavirus fears
The court has clarified that cases of prisoners being released on bail will continue
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued written order asking for the release of some prisoners, the 9-page order was issued by Chief Justice IHC Athar Minallah.
In the order, IHC has barred police from making any unnecessary arrests and has asked for the release of those prisoners who do not pose a threat to society. This directive is only applicable to prisoners convicted in cases in IHC.
The order will also apply to prisoners who have had their bail pleas rejected. The spread of the coronavirus and the consequent health emergency has prompted the unusual decision.
IHC has also ordered Health ministry to screen all prisoners on release and for a detailed report of the prisoners’ release to be submitted by March 24.
The court has however clarified that cases of prisoners being released on bail will continue and the criminals will have to comply with the authorities. Any negligence by the authorities in this regard could have serious consequences, the order stated.
