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ATC Grants Bail to PTI’s Shah Mehmood Qureshi in May 9 Arson Case
ATC Lahore grants bail to PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi in May 9 arson case. Judge Manzar Ali Gul announces decision in Shadman Police Station FIR.
ND
by News Desk
2025-06-21
ATC Grants Bail to PTI’s Shah Mehmood Qureshi in May 9 Arson Case

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Lahore on Saturday granted bail to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi in the high-profile May 9 arson and encirclement case, registered at Shadman Police Station.

ATC Judge Manzar Ali Gul announced the verdict today after reserving the decision a day earlier following the completion of arguments by both prosecution and defense counsel.

The case stems from the violent nationwide protests that erupted on May 9, 2023, following the arrest of PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Protesters were accused of attacking public and military installations, torching vehicles, and inciting violence. Dozens of PTI leaders and workers were booked under terrorism and other criminal charges.

Shah Mehmood Qureshi, a key PTI figure and former Foreign Minister, was named in the Shadman FIR along with other central party leaders. The police alleged that he played a role in inciting and organizing the unrest.

During the court proceedings, Qureshi’s legal team argued that the allegations were politically motivated and lacked credible evidence linking him directly to the incidents. They maintained that he was exercising his democratic right to protest and was not involved in any act of violence.

The prosecution, however, insisted that Qureshi’s presence and influence had a direct impact on the crowd’s actions.

After hearing both sides, the ATC found the arguments for bail sufficient and allowed Qureshi’s release, subject to legal conditions.

This decision marks a significant development in the legal proceedings against PTI leaders in the aftermath of May 9 events — a day that remains a political flashpoint in Pakistan’s recent history. Several other PTI leaders, including Imran Khan, continue to face charges related to the unrest.
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