SHC seeks govt’s comments on two MQM leaders’ detention

The Sindh High Court on Friday directed the provincial government and others to file comments on a petition challenging the detention of former MNA and Muttahida Quami Movement Altaf (MQM-A) coordination committee member, Kanwar Khalid Younus.

Petitioner Naz Kanwar Khalid submitted that Kanwar Khalid, who is a member of the newly formed MQM-A Rabita Committee, was picked up by law enforcers from outside the Karachi Press Club on October 22 and later he was detained under the maintenance of public order.

The counsel said the detention of Kanwar Khalid was a violation of Article 10-A of the Constitution and he was not given any notice prior to detention.

The lawyer also sought medical treatment for the detainee.

The court was informed by the provincial law officer that the Kanwar Khalid was arrested under the maintenance of public order.

The court adjourned the matter till November 17 and directed the provincial law officer to submit the comments on behalf of the home department.

The court also directed the jail authorities to provide medical treatment to the detainee as per the prison rules.

Family member of another MQM-A coordination committee member also challenged the detention of Amjadullah, who was also detained by the Sindh Rangers outside the KPC on October 22.

Petitioner Ahsanullah said police and the Rangers had picked up Amjadullah from outside the KPC and detained him unlawfully.

He said his son was not involved in any criminal activity and his detention was illegal.

He requested the court to ensure presence of the detainee and order his release if he was found not guilty.