ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday granted one-day protective bail to human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari-Hazir and her husband Hadi Ali Chatha, restraining the relevant law enforcement agencies from arresting them till Tuesday.

Justice Mohammad Azam Khan passed the order while hearing a petition filed by the couple seeking protection in connection with the controversial tweets case. During the hearing, counsel Kamran Murtaza informed the court that the bail of the petitioners had been cancelled twice and fresh orders for their arrest had been issued by the trial court. He urged the court to exercise restraint, submitting that if there was any perceived misconduct by counsel, it should not prejudice the accused.

The lawyer pleaded that Ms Mazari was suffering from poor health, requesting interim relief. He also pointed out that the trial court was scheduled to take up the matter shortly. Emphasising the dignity and responsibility attached to the judicial office, the counsel sought protection to enable the petitioners to appear before the relevant forum.

After hearing the arguments, Justice Khan directed Ms Mazari and her husband to appear before the competent court. The court adjourned further hearing of the petition.

Meanwhile, the court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Mohammad Afzal Majoka adjourned proceedings in the controversial tweets case in view of the IHC order. The trial court directed that both the accused should appear before it within one hour of their appearance before the IHC.

Earlier, the trial court had expressed displeasure over the non-arrest of the accused and directed law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants and ensure their production. However, officials from NCCIA and police failed to comply with the warrants, seeking time to submit reports.

Judge Majoka warned that action would be taken against officials submitting unsatisfactory reports.

Subsequently, the trial court was informed that the accused had secured protective bail from the IHC and were bound to appear on Tuesday. Rejecting a request for further adjournment, Judge Majoka observed that no undue concession would be granted and directed that the statement of the accused under Section 342 CrPC would be recorded upon their appearance. The hearing was adjourned till Tuesday.

Published in Dawn, January 20th, 2026