Supreme Court Grants Bail to May 9 Violence Suspects, Questions Arrests in Political Rallies

Islamabad: In a significant development, the Supreme Court of Pakistan granted bail to five suspects implicated in the May 9 violence case, highlighting concerns over the targeting of individuals participating in political rallies rather than apprehending the “Real Terrorists.”

During the hearing of bail petitions, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail criticized the authorities for allegedly focusing on individuals involved in political demonstrations instead of addressing genuine security threats. He emphasized the need to distinguish between political activism and terrorism, urging parties to confine political disputes to the appropriate forums.

The apex court approved bail for the petitioners, namely Owais, Saifullah, Nasrullah, Kamran, and Waqas, upon the submission of surety bonds amounting to Rs50,000 each. The court directed the trial court to adjudicate the case impartially, unaffected by external influences.

Justice Mandokhail raised concerns regarding the investigation’s integrity, highlighting discrepancies in the handling of terrorism-related charges. He emphasized the importance of credible evidence and transparency in legal proceedings, urging authorities to refrain from baseless accusations.

Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Justice Mussarat Hilali echoed Justice Mandokhail’s sentiments, underscoring the significance of evidence-based prosecution and adherence to due process.

The court questioned the absence of conclusive evidence against the accused, particularly the reliance on police testimonies without corroborating evidence from independent sources. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of CCTV footage and the reliance on police statements in the absence of substantive evidence.

The judiciary emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in law enforcement efforts, urging authorities to prioritize genuine security concerns over political considerations.

The bail grant underscores the court’s commitment to upholding fundamental rights and ensuring fair treatment for all individuals embroiled in legal proceedings, irrespective of political affiliations.