LAHORE: An anti-terrorism court on Saturday extended the interim pre-arrest bail of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) founding chairman Imran Khan’s sisters and other leaders in multiple cases of May 9 riots.

Aleema Khan and Uzma Khan appeared in the court, however, Opposition Leader in National Assembly Omar Ayub and former federal ministers Asad Umar, Azam Swati and Fawad Chaudhry were absent.

Their lawyers filed applications for one-time exemption from personal appearance citing health and other reasons.

ATC-I Judge Manzer Ali Gill observed that Asad Umar had not appeared on several previous hearings.

Speaking before the court, Aleema Khan expressed frustration over delays in the police investigation. She claimed that despite multiple appearances and cooperation with the police, the investigation remained incomplete.

She urged the court to punish the investigating officer for providing false information.

However, the judge noted that the court could not impose penalties for such claims but assured her that a decision on her bail would be made on the next hearing.

The judge extended bail of Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan and other PTI leaders till Jan 14 in cases including Jinnah House attack.

The judge directed the lawyers for the petitioners to conclude their arguments on the next date of hearing. He also directed the police to complete the investigation before the next hearing.

Talking to the media, Aleema Khan criticised the prosecution for lacking evidence and wasting the court time. She argued that the prosecution’s delay in presenting solid proof was unfair to the accused.

Published in Dawn, December 8th, 2024