ATC Dismisses Bail Pleas of Imaan Mazari and Husband in IHC Scuffle Case

ISLAMABAD: The Anti-Terrorism Court on Thursday dismissed the pre-arrest bail applications of lawyer Imaan Mazari-Hazir and her husband Hadi Ali Chattha in a case linked to a scuffle outside the Islamabad High Court, after the couple failed to appear in person — a development that adds another layer of tension to their ongoing legal battles over controversial social media posts.

Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra cited non-appearance as the reason for rejecting the pleas. The case stems from a heated exchange and alleged altercation during a protest outside the IHC Bar Office, lodged on the complaint of IHC Bar Association President Syed Wajid Ali Gilani.

• Pre-arrest bail pleas dismissed in ATC due to non-appearance of Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha.
• Separate controversial tweets case: Accused and counsel absent despite repeated calls; court adjourns to Friday (January 24, 2026) at 8:30 am, orders personal appearance.
• Prosecution sought arrest warrants; judge noted High Court directive to complete cross-examination by January 24.
• IHCBA Secretary Manzoor Ahmed Jajja announced the couple will appear in tweets case today.
• Couple spent second night at IHC Bar president’s office; Hadi Ali Chattha briefly visited court for biometric verification.
• Solidarity shown by senior lawyers including Babar Awan, IHC Bar President Wajid Ali Gilani, and others.
• Heavy police deployment around IHC premises with strict vehicle checks.

In the parallel tweets case before Additional District and Sessions Judge Mohammad Afzal Majoka, the accused again did not appear despite adjournments until 11:30 am. Prosecutor Rana Usman argued deliberate avoidance despite High Court orders, pushing for warrants and bail rejection. The judge emphasized his authority to issue appropriate orders and fixed today’s hearing with a strict personal appearance directive.

Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha had earlier secured protective bail from the Islamabad High Court in the tweets matter but face multiple proceedings. The couple has been staying at the IHC Bar president’s office since the latest developments, receiving support from fellow lawyers who visited to express solidarity amid heightened security around the court complex.

The dismissals and repeated non-appearances have intensified scrutiny on the cases, which involve allegations tied to social media activity and courtroom protests. With deadlines looming for cross-examination and personal attendance required today, the situation remains fluid — highlighting the complexities of balancing legal rights, court directives, and public accountability in high-profile matters.

Pakistan’s judicial system continues to navigate these cases with due process, and all parties are expected to comply with court orders to ensure fair proceedings. The nation watches closely as these developments unfold, underscoring the importance of respect for the rule of law at every level.