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Aleema Khan Urges Media to Defend Arrested Journalists, Slams Terrorism Charges
Outside ATC Lahore, Aleema Khan warns that silence over journalists’ arrests will endanger everyone, while contesting anti-terrorism charges linked to political protests.
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by Muhammad Hashir
2025-12-05
Aleema Khan Urges Media to Defend Arrested Journalists, Slams Terrorism Charges

Aleema Khan, sister of PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, on Friday called on journalists to speak out for their detained colleagues, cautioning that remaining silent could pave the way for wider repercussions. Speaking outside the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Lahore, she noted that two journalists were charged over the NA-129 by-election for allegedly insulting Maryam Nawaz.
“If the media does not raise its voice, one by one everyone will face action,” she warned.

Aleema stressed that journalists must defend their own profession just as lawyers defend their clients. She reaffirmed her support for the PTI founder, adding that they would not be intimidated. Addressing her right to meet her brother in jail, she said: “According to jail rules, we have the right to meet our brother. Who is stopping this? Legally, we can meet him. We will also go to jail on Tuesday for the meeting.”

Aleema Khan, Azma Khan, Asad Umar, Musarrat Cheema, and Mrs. Mazmil Masood Bhatti appeared before the ATC in cases related to the May 9 ‘burn and siege’ incidents. These include accusations of torching a PML-N office and setting a container on fire at Kalma Chowk. The court extended their interim bail until January 16, directing lawyers to present arguments at the next hearing. The judge also approved Fawad Chaudhry’s request for a one-day exemption from attendance.

Rawalpindi Terrorism Case

In a separate case in Rawalpindi, Aleema Khan is facing anti-terrorism charges tied to political protests, which include allegations of chanting anti-government slogans, vandalism, and causing public disorder. The case involves Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), which carries penalties such as long-term imprisonment and possible property forfeiture.

Her lawyer argued that ATA provisions do not apply to political gatherings, citing Supreme Court rulings. However, the court dismissed her plea, asserting jurisdiction, while prosecutors claimed that several accused individuals had already confessed. Aleema criticized the charges as politically motivated, saying authorities were “looking for a way” to jail her. Her legal team plans to challenge the case in the Islamabad High Court.
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#AleemaKhan #PTI #ImranKhan #LegalIssues

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