Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza has been granted bail by the Lahore High Court’s Rawalpindi bench in a blasphemy case registered in Jhelum. The court approved his request after reviewing arguments presented during the hearing. Justice Siddiqat Ali Khan issued the order and asked for two surety bonds of Rs500,000 each.
Details of the Case and Proceedings
The cleric faces a blasphemy case initiated by the FIA Cyber Crime Wing. The FIR was registered in Jhelum earlier this year. His legal team has maintained that the charges required protective relief. His lawyer, Imran Khalil, represented him before the court and argued for bail based on legal grounds.
Earlier, authorities arrested Mirza on August 26. He was moved to jail under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order. This action intensified the legal debate surrounding his detention. His bail petition sought relief from ongoing proceedings and restrictions.
Court Direction and Next Legal Steps
The court directed him to submit the required bonds before securing release. The decision offers temporary relief as legal proceedings continue. However, the case itself remains under investigation. Further hearings may follow as authorities assess evidence and statements.
Mirza’s legal team is expected to prepare for upcoming stages of the case. Supporters believe the ruling will allow him to present his stance more effectively. The decision has also drawn public attention due to the sensitive nature of blasphemy charges in the country.
Context of the Charges
The FIR filed in Jhelum includes accusations linked to online content. Authorities claim the content triggered the inquiry by the Cyber Crime Wing. Although the case involves serious allegations, the court assessed the petition under legal requirements for bail. Due to this, the court granted temporary relief while ensuring compliance with procedural obligations.
The bail order marks a significant development in the ongoing case. The required bonds must be deposited before the cleric secures release. The legal process will continue as the case progresses through formal channels. Observers expect further updates as both parties prepare for the next steps.
