The Sindh High Court expressed strong displeasure over the absence of IG Sindh in a high-profile case involving the registration of dozens of drug cases against a citizen. IG Sindh, who was summoned, failed to appear, prompting the court to issue a contempt notice.
During the hearing, Additional IG Karachi Javed Odho appeared in place of the IG and provided details about the drug cases. Government lawyers informed the court that IG Sindh was in Islamabad for an emergency. However, the court questioned the nature of the emergency and criticized the non-compliance with judicial orders. “IG Sahib chose Islamabad over the court—this is unacceptable,” the judge remarked.
The court reviewed a report submitted by the prosecution, revealing that 27 drug cases had been registered against the accused, Bakhti Rowan. According to DIG East, the accused was previously convicted in three cases, acquitted in ten, while eleven are still pending. Drug cases have also been filed against accused’s sons.
Expressing grave concern over the city’s drug situation, the court observed that drugs are being sold under different flyovers and even in educational institutions. “We fixed the time for the hearing. If the verdict goes against you, challenge it in the Supreme Court,” the judge said.
Additional IG Karachi claimed significant progress in the fight against drugs and crime, stating that 22 of 24 top-tier drug suppliers are in jail and efforts are underway to arrest the rest. He also noted a 50% reduction in street crime and a 54% drop in violent incidents in Karachi.
Despite police claims, the court emphasized that drug prevention, especially in schools and colleges, must be the top priority and called for collective responsibility from all stakeholders. The applicant’s lawyer later withdrew the bail request, and the court disposed of the case.
