ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court (IHC) approved pre-arrest bail of PTI Chief Imran Khan a day after an arrest warrant was issued for former premier in connection with his controversial remarks against Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Zeba Chaudhry and other officials at an August 20 public rally.

Imran’s arrest warrant September 30 was issued by Senior Civil Judge Rana Mujahid Rahim. As details of warrant emerged, PTI workers and leaders converged on Banigala to scuttle any attempts at his arrest, warning once again that he is a “red line”.

According to Islamabad police, after Islamabad High Court struck down terror charges from case registered against Imran, case was transferred to a sessions’ court and PTI chief had not obtained his bail from there. Police also said he had also not attended last court hearing on matter and warrant was issued to ensure his presence.

Subsequently, Imran filed a petition with IHC through his counsel Babar Awan. In plea, Imran said that a terrorism case was initially filed against him, however, charges were later struck down by high court and case was transferred. According to plea, purpose of case was to arrest Imran in order to put an end to a “peaceful political movement. Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani took up PTI leader’s petition and barred Islamabad police from arresting Imran. Court approved Imran’s bail against submission of surety bonds worth Rs 10,000. IHC also directed Imran to appear before court concerned before Friday.

Speaking to media outside court, Awan said IHC had granted PTI chief “pre-arrest transitory protective bail”, adding “we will turn up at lower court before October 7.” PTI Chief’s counsel said whatever happened yesterday evening was “very dangerous” as whole country stood up without any call. “This imported government must see Imran’s power.”

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 03 2022

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