Islamabad High Court Provides Temporary Legal Relief
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday granted protective bail to lawyer and human rights activist Imaan Mazari and her husband, Advocate Hadi Ali Chattha. The court also restrained the Islamabad Police from arresting the couple for the time being.
The hearing was conducted by Justice Azam Khan. The petition was filed after a case was registered against the couple at Kohsar Police Station. The protective bail was sought amid concerns of imminent arrest.
The court ordered both petitioners to submit surety bonds of Rs10,000 each. The relief allows them temporary protection while they pursue further legal remedies.
Defence Raises Concerns Over Police Conduct
Senator Kamran Murtaza appeared as counsel for the petitioners. He argued that the police action raised serious questions. He told the court this was the first time a woman had spent an entire night inside the Islamabad High Court premises seeking protection from arrest.
He questioned why the police had not arrested his clients earlier. He noted that the case had been registered last year. During that time, Mazari and Chattha had appeared before various courts without any attempt at arrest.
The counsel said police action began only after the IHC declared arrest warrants invalid in a separate controversial social media post case. He argued that this timing suggested selective enforcement.
Senator Murtaza urged the court to ensure that no arrest takes place from court premises. He said his clients were law-abiding citizens and not enemies of the state. He added that they enjoyed the same constitutional rights as all Pakistanis, including members of the judiciary.
Court’s Observations and Legal Order
Justice Azam Khan noted that the court’s authority was limited to the matter before it. He said orders could only be issued within the legal scope of the petition.
After hearing the arguments, the court granted protective bail to both petitioners. The judge also directed the Islamabad Police not to arrest them while the protective bail remains in effect.
A large number of lawyers were present in the courtroom during the hearing. Their presence reflected strong interest in the case and visible solidarity with Imaan Mazari and her husband.
The case has drawn attention from legal and civil rights circles. Observers say it raises broader questions about arrest procedures and access to legal protection.
The protective bail offers temporary relief but does not end the legal process. The petitioners are expected to approach the relevant court for pre-arrest bail or further legal proceedings.
