ISLAMABAD: The special court of Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Saturday granted post-arrest bail to vlogger Asad Ali Toor in a case related to maligning state institutions on social media.

Special Judge Central Humayun Dilawar accepted the post-arrest bail of Toor against Rs5000 surety bonds. Advocate Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha represented him in the court.

Earlier, hearing on the bail plea had been adjourned till March 18. However, IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq on Friday directed the trial court to hear the bail application on March 16.

When the court resumed hearing on Saturday, Advocate Chatha pointed out that the Supreme Court had observed that journalists should not be charged for criticising judiciary.

Judge Dilawar verified this from the investigation officer and the FIA prosecutor Ishfaq Naqvi confirmed the observation. The judge then allowed the post-arrest bail plea.

Published in Dawn, March 17th, 2024