ISLAMABAD (Lord Media): The Islamabad High Court heard a case regarding the increasing number of shisha cafes and the rise in AIDS and HIV cases in the city. The court has summoned the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad and the Inspector General of Police to appear personally at the next hearing.
Chief Justice Sarfaraz Dogar presided over the hearing on the petition filed by citizen Abdul Jabbar. Advocate Muhammad Sohail Khurshid appeared on behalf of the petitioner.
During the hearing, the Chief Justice inquired about the reason for requesting details of the shisha cafes. The lawyer explained that the number of shisha cafes in Islamabad has increased, with gatherings continuing throughout the night. Some cafes operate with NOCs, while many function without permission.
The lawyer argued that these activities are exacerbating social and health issues. According to the Health Minister’s statement, these gatherings are contributing to the spread of AIDS and HIV.
The court was requested to obtain complete details of the shisha cafes and present a procedure for action against those violating regulations. The court has issued notices to the Chief Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, and IG Islamabad Police, seeking their response, and the hearing has been adjourned until next week.
