The Lahore High Court (LHC) observed that there is no audio or video evidence on record linking former Prime Minister Imran Khan to the attacks on state installations that occurred on May 9, 2023.
The LHC has released its written order on Imran Khan’s petition challenging the July 15 decision by an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore.
The ATC had remanded the PTI founder into police custody for 10 days in connection with 12 separate cases from May 9.
On July 18, a division bench of the LHC, consisting of Justice Tariq Saleem Sheikh and Justice Anwaarul Haq Pannun, heard Imran Khan’s petition. On July 25, the court overturned the ATC’s order.
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In its 5-page written order, the high court highlighted that the Constitution prohibits any unlawful limitations on an individual’s freedom. The court pointed out that there are established rulings on physical remand and addef that a judicial magistrate must examine the charges before granting a remand.
The court stated that judges must take Article 10 of the Constitution into account when deciding on police remand, as it ensures that the accused has the right to present their case before the judge.
The written order stated that there is no clear audio or video evidence to support claims that Imran Khan was involved in the May 9 incidents.
It noted that even over a year after the vandalism and rioting, Imran had not been arrested in any of the twelve cases.
Furthermore, the prosecution had failed to provide substantial evidence against him, relying solely on the statement of a government official.
