ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court has summoned Dr Anam Fatima, Director of the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA), Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) over her alleged contemptuous behaviour.

IHC Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan heard a petition filed by hawkers against the DMA’s anti-encroachment drive.

Counsel for the petitioners Imaan Mazari alleged that Dr Fatima defied court orders by taking action against the petitioners despite clear judicial directions.

She informed the court that this was the second contempt petition in the ongoing dispute. She alleged that Dr Fatima violated the court’s order dated April 24.

The court questioned whether the petitioners would submit an affidavit confirming the statements made in their petition, specifically those in paragraph 5 related to the alleged defiance of Dr Fatima.

Advocate Mazari responded affirmatively, stating the petitioners were ready to attest to their claims.

According to the petition, Dr Fatima allegedly told pushcart holders that she did not accept the court order and that the matter was in the process of being transferred. The petition further claimed she instructed the petitioners to “forget [about] the order.”

The court directed the petitioners to file the affidavit and summoned Dr Fatima to appear in person. The hearing was adjourned until Tuesday.

Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2025