An Anti‑Terrorism Court (ATC) on Friday granted bail to human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, in two criminal cases. The court ordered their release after the complainant withdrew his allegations. The bail was connected to a protest outside the Islamabad High Court (IHC). This marks a key step in their ongoing legal struggles.
ATC Judge Abul Hasnat Muhammad Zulqarnain approved the bail petitions. He released the couple on surety bonds of Rs5,000 each. During the hearing, Wajid Ali Gilani, president of the Islamabad High Court Bar Association, formally withdrew his complaint, clearing the path for their freedom.
Defence Argues Activism, Not Violence
Defence lawyer Eimal Khan Mandokhail told the court that Mazari and Chattha had acted peacefully while supporting Justice Jahangiri outside the high court. He stressed that no fight or scuffle occurred. Mandokhail asked the court to view their actions as legal advocacy in support of justice.
He also highlighted a separate FIR from a protest at the National Press Club. He said the charges were baseless and politically motivated. The lawyer added that the couple has long stood up for victims, especially in enforced disappearance cases.
IHC to Schedule Tweets Case Hearing
Separately, the Islamabad High Court reviewed a request to schedule an early hearing for Mazari and Chattha’s plea in a controversial tweets case. Justice Muhammad Asif said the court would assign a date after completing other matters. State counsel Ali Azad and other lawyers asked for a hearing before Eid. The court instructed staff to schedule the case according to standard procedures.
The FIRs were registered at Secretariat and Kohsar police stations in Islamabad. Mazari and Chattha remain hopeful as their legal journey continues.
