The anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore, Pakistan, has issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan. The warrant was also issued for other party leaders, including Hammad Azhar and Mian Aslam Iqbal. The arrests are related to cases registered against the accused for alleged acts of violence and arson, including the torching of a container and an attack on the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) office in Lahore.
Non-Bailable Arrest Warrant for Imran Khan and PTI Leaders:
The ATC granted the request of the investigating officer and issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for PTI Chairman Imran Khan. Alongside him, former ruling party leaders Hammad Azhar and Mian Aslam Iqbal, among others, also face non-bailable arrest warrants. The cases against the accused were registered in the Naseerabad and Model Town police stations in Lahore, following the incidents of violence and property damage.
The cases against the accused were filed after riots erupted in Lahore following the arrest of the former Prime Minister and PML-N leader on May 9. The protests led to clashes between PTI supporters and law enforcement agencies, resulting in multiple injuries and fatalities. Several cases, ranging from terrorism to corruption, have been registered against the deposed Prime Minister since his ousting from power through a no-confidence motion in April of the previous year.
Violent Protests and Allegations Against PTI Leadership:
The violent protests that ensued following the arrest of the former Prime Minister led to severe criticism of PTI leadership. The party chief, Imran Khan, and other PTI leaders were accused of inciting violence and were subsequently booked under terrorism charges. The protests, which lasted for nearly three days, witnessed attacks on state installations and widespread property destruction. The aftermath of the riots resulted in a number of PTI leaders and founding members, including Shireen Mazari, Fawad Chaudhry, Imran Ismail, Ali Zaidi, and Aamir Mehmood Kiani, parting ways with the party. Many of them blamed the policies of the party chief for the outbreak of violence.
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As the legal proceedings continue, the issuance of non-bailable arrest warrants by the ATC signifies the seriousness of the charges against the accused. Imran Khan and other PTI leaders will be expected to respond to the arrest warrants and cooperate with the authorities. The allegations of terrorism and violence have had significant consequences for the party, with key members choosing to distance themselves from the PTI. The departures of prominent figures within the party have prompted discussions and criticism regarding the leadership’s handling of the situation.
The issuance of non-bailable arrest warrants against PTI Chairman Imran Khan and other party leaders by the ATC underscores the gravity of the charges brought against them. The cases, stemming from incidents of violence and arson during protests, highlight the tensions and divisions within the political landscape of Pakistan. As the legal proceedings unfold, the accused will have an opportunity to present their defence and cooperate with the authorities. The outcomes of these cases will have significant implications for the PTI and its future trajectory, as well as the broader political dynamics in the country.
