Imran Khan has filed a petition with the Islamabad High Court (IHC) to prevent potential military custody in connection with the ongoing trials related to the May 9 incidents.
Protests erupted nationwide on May 9, 2023, following Khan’s arrest by paramilitary Rangers from the IHC in a corruption case. The demonstrations included vandalism at key military and government sites. Khan, who was already in detention, was further arrested on July 15, shortly after being held in a new Toshakhana case.
Read More: Pak army vows ongoing, comprehensive support to govt in counter-terrorism efforts: ISPR
Moreover, Khan has expressed concerns about being tried in a military court and alleged that former intelligence chief Gen (retired) Faiz Hameed is being pressured to testify against him. Government officials have hinted at the possibility of military trials, although the Punjab government recently denied any current plans to transfer his case to military jurisdiction.
The petition filed by Khan argues that moving him to military custody would violate Supreme Court rulings on civilian trials and undermine his legal rights. It requests the IHC to ensure Khan remains under civilian custody, citing potential harm to his rights and liberties if transferred to a military court.
Furthermore, the petition highlights the public importance of safeguarding legal and constitutional processes, emphasising that any breach could cause irreparable harm to Khan’s fundamental rights.
