IHC tells Shireen Mazari to seek jail approval for meeting daughter, son-in-law

Islamabad – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday directed that a petition concerning access to jailed family members be first submitted to the Adiala Jail superintendent. The petition was filed by former federal minister Shireen Mazari regarding her inability to meet her daughter, Imaan Mazari, and son-in-law, Hadi Ali Chattha.

Petition Details and Background

Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha were convicted on January 24, 2026, in Islamabad. The conviction stemmed from a case linked to alleged posts and reposts on X, formerly known as Twitter, which authorities described as “anti-state.” The case originated in August 2025 and was investigated by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016.

Authorities allege the content shared by Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha aimed to undermine state institutions and align with proscribed organizations or individuals. The convictions have faced widespread condemnation from members of the legal community, politicians, and civil society.

Did You Know? The case against Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha was registered under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016.

Court Proceedings and Ruling

Shireen Mazari filed the petition with the IHC on Tuesday, asserting her legal right to meet her daughter and son-in-law while they are in custody. She stated to the court, “I am a mother. I want to meet my daughter and my son-in-law, but you are preventing me.” Prior to filing the petition, Mazari attempted to visit her daughter at Adiala Jail on Tuesday but was denied access.

Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard the matter, with Mazari appearing alongside her counsel, Kamran Murtaza, and other legal representatives. The court inquired whether a formal application had been submitted to the jail superintendent. Justice Tahir emphasized that the law requires such a request to be directed through the relevant administrative authority before approaching the court.

The judge advised Mazari to submit her request to either Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa or Adiala Jail Superintendent Sajid Baig. He stated that if the request is rejected by these authorities, the court could then consider providing relief. Mazari’s counsel requested the jail superintendent be given one or two days to consider the application.

Expert Insight: The court’s decision underscores the importance of adhering to established legal procedures, even in cases involving urgent personal matters. By requiring a formal application to the jail superintendent, the IHC is reinforcing the administrative process for visitation rights.

The IHC subsequently disposed of the petition, directing that it be forwarded to the Adiala Jail superintendent for appropriate action. As of Wednesday, February 4, 2026, jail authorities had not issued an immediate response to the court’s order.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Shireen Mazari to approach the IHC?

Shireen Mazari approached the IHC after being denied a jail meeting with her daughter, Imaan Mazari, and son-in-law, Hadi Ali Chattha.

What charges are Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha facing?

Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha were convicted in a case linked to alleged “anti-state” posts and reposts on X, investigated under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016.

What was the IHC’s direction to Shireen Mazari?

The IHC directed Shireen Mazari to first submit a formal application to either Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa or Adiala Jail Superintendent Sajid Baig requesting the meeting.

What implications might the outcome of this process have for families seeking to visit incarcerated relatives?