LEGAL

Imran Khan's Medical Exam, Family Meeting Approved in GHQ Attack Case

In the GHQ attack case, PTI Chairman Imran Khan is granted a medical examination and meeting with his sons, while the court approves daily hearings from January 13.
2025-01-08
Imran Khan's Medical Exam, Family Meeting Approved in GHQ Attack Case

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi has made significant rulings in the high-profile GHQ attack case, involving Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. During the hearing of the case in Adiala Jail, PTI leader Imran Khan was granted permission for a medical examination and a meeting with his sons. Additionally, the court approved a request allowing PTI leader Usman Dar to travel abroad for a specified period.

Case Update: Indictment and Proceedings

The GHQ attack case, which involves a series of criminal charges related to the violent protests on May 9, continued its legal proceedings with several important developments. Imran Khan, who remains a key figure in the case, appeared in court today alongside other accused individuals. Notably, the court indicted another suspect, Shaheer Sikandar, bringing the total number of indicted accused to 118.

The court also announced that the trial will be held on a daily basis starting January 13. This decision was made after the prosecution's request to expedite proceedings under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Statements from prosecution witnesses are set to be recorded at the next hearing. The decision for daily hearings aims to hasten the judicial process and ensure that the case progresses without further delays.

Medical and Family Requests Approved

One of the key developments in the hearing was the court's approval of Imran Khan's request to undergo a medical examination. His legal team had filed a formal petition for the PTI founder to receive a health check-up, citing concerns about his well-being. Alongside this, Imran Khan’s request for a meeting with his sons was also granted. This decision came amid growing public attention on his health and his continued legal battles.

Usman Dar's Request to Travel Abroad

Another significant ruling involved PTI leader Usman Dar, who had sought permission to travel abroad. The court accepted his request to leave the country from January 13 to February 21. Usman Dar, who is also facing charges related to the May 9 unrest, was allowed to designate Hasnain Iqbal Sumbal as his pleader in his absence.

Pending Requests and Future Proceedings

During the hearing, the court addressed several pending requests, including those for acquiring audio and video evidence. Opposition Leader in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub Khan, had asked for the provision of evidence records and the confessional statements of the accused. The court deferred the arguments on these issues for the next hearing.

Additionally, the request for the acquittal of Colonel (retd) Ajmal Sabir was also discussed, but the court adjourned further arguments for clarification from the lawyers.

Status of the Absentee Accused

The court also dealt with the absence of certain accused individuals. The trial of Muhammad Asim, one of the accused in the case, was separated, and the prosecution will proceed with presenting evidence against the other accused in the next hearing. Furthermore, the court issued an advertisement calling for the two accused who have yet to appear in court to do so by January 24.

Future Hearing Schedule

The Rawalpindi Anti-Terrorism Court has adjourned the hearing of the GHQ attack case until January 13, 2025. Following this, the trial will proceed on a daily basis. As more accused individuals are being indicted, the case continues to draw significant legal and public interest.

The May 9 violence, which led to the attack on military installations and the subsequent arrests, has raised major political and security concerns. Several PTI leaders, including former Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid and others, have appeared in the court, and the proceedings are expected to be closely watched in the coming weeks.

Conclusion

As the GHQ attack case moves forward, the legal battles for Imran Khan and other PTI leaders intensify. The court's decision to hold daily hearings, along with the approval of medical and family requests, signals the urgency of the case and the judicial efforts to address the serious charges leveled against the accused. The outcome of this case is expected to have far-reaching implications for Pakistan's political landscape and the future of PTI as a political party.