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Ex-CM Khalid Khurshid Sentenced to 34 Years by GB ATC
Former Gilgit-Baltistan CM Khalid Khurshid sentenced to 34 years in prison for threatening security institutions. The court also fined him Rs600,000 and ordered his arrest.
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-31
Ex-CM Khalid Khurshid Sentenced to 34 Years by GB ATC

A Gilgit-Baltistan Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Tuesday handed down a 34-year prison sentence to former GB Chief Minister Khalid Khurshid Khan for threatening security institutions during a party rally in July.

Khurshid, who is also the regional president of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was convicted of delivering a speech at Ittehad Chowk, Gilgit, on July 26, where he allegedly made incendiary remarks against security institutions, including the chief secretary and chief election commissioner.

Background of the Case

The controversy surrounding Khurshid began in July 2023 when the GB Chief Court disqualified him over allegations of securing a license from the GB Bar Council using a fake law degree. Subsequently, police registered a case against him for possessing the fake degree.

While the Peshawar High Court granted him protective bail in September for cases filed across various regions, the case concerning his rally speech took a dramatic turn. Judge Rehmat Shah of the GB ATC ruled on Tuesday that Khurshid’s statements amounted to serious threats under the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).

Verdict and Sentence

Judge Shah sentenced Khurshid to 34 years in prison and imposed a fine of Rs600,000. The court also directed the GB inspector general of police to arrest the former chief minister and ensure compliance with the judgment.

Further, the judge ordered the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) to block Khurshid’s national identity card, adding another layer of consequences to the former CM’s conviction.

Non-Appearance and Legal Proceedings

Khurshid had failed to attend any of the hearings despite repeated notices from the court. In light of his absence, the court appointed a defence lawyer to represent him. The lawyer presented arguments, but the court ultimately ruled in favor of the prosecution.

Implications of the Verdict

The sentencing of Khalid Khurshid is a landmark decision, reflecting the judiciary's firm stance against rhetoric perceived as threatening to state institutions. It also underscores the challenges faced by political figures embroiled in legal battles over qualifications and controversial public statements.

Khurshid’s political future remains uncertain as this verdict further complicates his standing within the PTI and his eligibility for public office.
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