Vandalism and Protest Case
In a significant legal development, the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Islamabad granted bail to former Prime Minister Imran Khan and former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in cases related to protest and vandalism. The decision, delivered by Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain, marks a notable shift from the court’s earlier stance when it rejected their pre-arrest bail applications on August 11.
The recent court proceedings witnessed the prosecutor arguing that the protests orchestrated by Khan and Qureshi were deliberate and staged, emphasizing that granting bail would constitute “extraordinary relief.” Seeking the outright dismissal of the bail applications, the prosecutor underscored the orchestrated nature of the protests, implying premeditation.
During the proceedings, the judge questioned whether both suspects were physically present at the scene of the protest. The prosecutor confirmed their absence, but the court observed that bail had been previously granted to other co-suspects implicated in the cases. Subsequently, Judge Zulqarnain approved bail for both Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi in all five cases, with each accused required to post a bail bond of Rs30,000.
This legal development highlights the nuanced approach of the court, taking into consideration the complexities surrounding charges of protest and vandalism against the former prime minister and foreign minister. The decision to grant bail offers temporary relief for Khan and Qureshi, enabling them to navigate the legal process while awaiting further developments in the cases.
As legal proceedings continue, the granted bail serves as a crucial aspect of the defendants’ legal strategy, allowing them to address the charges and present their case within the framework of the judicial system.
