Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) made strong remarks during the hearing of a contempt of court case related to the denial of entry to Mishal Yousafzai at Adiala Jail.

Addressing the Deputy Registrar of IHC, he questioned, “On whose instructions was the cause list cancelled? Would you have blown up my court before doing so?”

Deputy Registrar Judicial Sultan Mahmood appeared in court and stated that the cancellation was ordered by the Chief Justice’s office.

Justice Ishaq had earlier summoned him for transferring the case to another bench.

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During the hearing, the court asked whether the Deputy Registrar was involved in the decision.

He responded that he had acted on the Chief Justice’s office instructions, which led to the formation of a larger bench. Justice Ishaq expressed concern over the state’s intervention in judicial matters, questioning whether a case could be moved without a judge’s consent.

“Instead of transferring the case, you could have placed explosives under my courtroom,” he remarked, emphasising the judiciary’s repeated struggles over fundamental legal principles every decade.

Justice Ishaq further stated, “Can the economy progress without the rule of law? This is not about my authority — it’s about the dignity of the High Court. Will the public continue to have faith in the justice system this way?”

Advocate Shoaib Shaheen pointed out that the state and superintendent were not even aggrieved parties in the case, questioning the future of fair justice.

Justice Ishaq responded, “You are talking about this case, but I am more concerned about our institution. A guided missile that was heading your way is now aimed at us.”

The Islamabad High Court adjourned the hearing until tomorrow.