ISLAMABAD: The bail applications of Imran Khan in the cipher case were adjourned indefinitely by the Supreme Court of Pakistan, with the court stating that the appeals would be heard in due course.
A three-member bench, headed by Justice Sardar Tariq Masood and including Justice Ayesha Malik and Justice Yahya Afridi, heard two petitions on Wednesday. One petition challenged the original arrest and FIR in the cipher case, while the other appealed the denial of bail by a single bench of the Islamabad High Court.
During the proceedings, Salman Safdar, the lawyer representing Imran Khan in the first petition, informed the court that the matter related to the cipher and subsequent case dated back to 2022. The bench observed that there had been a delay in approaching the court and noted that the FIR included offenses carrying potential death or life imprisonment sentences.
Upon the court’s request, Safdar read out the FIR in the cipher case, revealing accusations against Imran Khan for allegedly misusing the cipher for political purposes and causing harm to the state. The bench also pointed out the presence of the investigation officer, who had appeared without receiving any notices, and instructed him to remain seated.
Addressing concerns of political victimization raised by Safdar, Justice Masood stated that the case was being pursued with political motivations. The judge noted that the lawyer attempted to simultaneously push for the bail application and the dismissal of the FIR.
In response to an appeal against the Islamabad High Court’s ruling represented by lawyer and PTI leader Hamid Khan, the bench granted time for the preparation of arguments. Hamid Khan mentioned a new decision on Khan’s jail trial from the Islamabad High Court, requesting time to study it. Justice Masood suggested that a new appeal could be filed against the latest order, but Hamid Khan insisted on a delay. Justice Masood asserted that Imran Khan’s appeal would be heard when its turn came.
Imran Khan’s bail in the cipher case had previously been rejected by the Islamabad High Court, citing the sensitivity of the case and urging expedited hearings by the special court. The charges against Khan involve the alleged illegal retention and communication of the contents of a classified diplomatic cable under section 5 of the Official Secrets Act.
