Rochdale Deputy Leader Councillor Daalat Ali's return from Pakistan delayed, "not in custody" — close sources

Rochdale (Voices of Jammu Kashmir): The return of Rochdale Borough Council's Deputy Leader Councillor Daalat Ali to the UK following an official visit to Pakistan has been delayed. According to sources close to him, the return has been postponed until certain paperwork is completed. Sources say that Councillor Daalat Ali sent a message stating that he is not in custody and hopes to return to the UK soon once the proceedings are completed.

Councillor Daalat Ali travelled to Pakistan a few weeks ago alongside the Mayor of Rochdale Councillor Faisal Rana and other members of the delegation on a municipal and goodwill visit to Rochdale's twin town of Sahiwal.

According to sources, upon arrival in Islamabad, Pakistani authorities stopped him for questioning for a few hours. After British authorities contacted Pakistani institutions, he was allowed to continue the visit with the delegation.

Sources say that Councillor Daalat Ali sent a message stating that he is not in custody and hopes to return to the UK soon once the proceedings are completed.

Upon completion of the visit, when the delegation arrived at Lahore Airport, authorities stated that Councillor Daalat Ali would have to complete some paperwork before departure, for which it was necessary to contact the relevant office in Islamabad. After this, he and other members of the delegation departed for Islamabad.

Independent verification regarding the reason for questioning, the nature of the required paperwork, and the expected time of its completion is not available.

Background: Councillor Daalat Ali, elected from Kingsway ward, was born in Kashmir and came to England at the age of 14. He was first elected as a councillor in 2010 and became Deputy Leader in 2018. He belongs to the Labour Party and holds responsibility for the health portfolio. He is among the founding members of the Kashmir Research and Review Centre, Rochdale's Kashmir Youth Project, and the Kashmir Broadcasting Corporation. (Deputy council leader Daalat Ali shortlisted for 2023 LGIU & CCLA Councillor Award +2)