The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Rawalpindi on Friday dismissed PTI’s petition challenging the decision to conduct party founder Imran Khan’s trial in the GHQ attack case via video link.
Imran’s arrest on May 9, 2023, triggered violent protests nationwide, with state buildings and military installations, including the General Headquarters, being targeted and vandalised. He has been indicted in the case and remains in Adiala Jail since August 2023.
Court Proceedings
At today’s hearing, PTI counsel argued that a fair trial required the former prime minister’s physical presence. However, Prosecutor Zaheer Shah countered that a 2016 amendment to the Code of Criminal Procedure permits appearances via video link. He further cited Sections 15 and 21 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, which empower courts to regulate trial procedures.
Shah clarified that the Punjab government had transferred proceedings from Adiala Jail to the ATC through an executive order. He added that reviewing such an order falls within the jurisdiction of constitutional courts, not the ATC. Filing objections at this stage, he said, was “creating hurdles in the trial and wasting time.”
The defence team maintained its demand for Imran’s physical appearance and informed the court it would approach the higher judiciary against the provincial government’s notification.
After brief arguments, Judge Amjad Ali Shah adjourned the hearing, giving PTI’s counsel time to consult with their legal team.
Security around the Rawalpindi ATC was heightened ahead of the hearing.
You May Like To Read:
