An anti-terrorism court in Karachi on Tuesday granted permission to Farhan Ghani, the brother of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) minister Saeed Ghani, to travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah.
Farhan Ghani, who is also the chairman of Chanesar Town, appeared before the court along with other accused in a case involving allegations of assault and threats against a government employee.
During the proceedings, the court questioned the application of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) to the case. The judge remarked that if the ATA was to be removed later, it raised the question of why it had been applied initially. The court added that if the act was not relevant, the case should have been presented before a magistrate from the start.
The defence counsel responded by requesting that the court issue an order to transfer the case to a magistrate. The court stated that a decision on the matter would be made in accordance with the law.
At the same time, the defence lawyer informed the court about Farhan Ghani’s plan to perform Umrah, asking for permission for his client to travel abroad.
When questioned, Farhan Ghani told the court he intended to leave the next morning and would return on September 19. He further informed the bench that his travel arrangements, including his seat, were already confirmed.
In response, the court scheduled the next hearing for September 20. However, Farhan Ghani requested that the hearing be fixed for September 22 to allow his return and presence before the court. The court accepted his request and set September 22 as the next hearing date.
The defence lawyer also requested an exemption from personal appearance at the next hearing, but the court declined the verbal request. It clarified that a decision would be taken on the basis of police reports during the next proceedings. The hearing was then adjourned until September 22.
