The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Tuesday issued arrest warrants for more than 40 Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders. The warrants were issued due to their failure to appear in the May 9 protest case outside the GHQ.
The hearing was conducted by ATC Judge Amjad Ali Shah. Defence lawyers requested permission to meet PTI founder Imran Khan at Adiala Jail. They said access was necessary to obtain instructions regarding the pending cases.
Defence counsel explained that they had already received preliminary instructions from Mr Khan. They emphasized that direct consultation was crucial for effective legal representation in the GHQ attack case.
The special prosecutor opposed the request. He told the court that Mr Khan was on bail in the May 9 case and not in ATC custody. He added that the PTI leader had already been convicted in another case. The prosecutor said the defence could approach the relevant forum if access grievances existed.
He further stated that as a convicted prisoner, Mr Khan was under the control of jail authorities. Under the law, jail officials regulate meetings, and the ATC did not have jurisdiction over this matter.
The defence counsel, however, refused to participate in proceedings without being granted access to their client. They maintained that proper representation could not continue without consultation with Mr Khan.
During the hearing, the court noted the absence of several accused. As a result, it issued non-bailable arrest warrants for 40 to 45 individuals who failed to appear in court. These warrants are intended to ensure the accused face the pending charges.
The ATC emphasized that compliance with court appearances is mandatory. The issuance of arrest warrants underscores the seriousness with which the court views non-appearance in terrorism-related cases.
Legal experts say that these arrest warrants aim to maintain the integrity of the judicial process and prevent delays in cases involving public safety and security.
The court proceedings are expected to continue once the accused respond to the issued warrants and the defence gains access to their client for instructions.
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This development marks a significant step in the ongoing May 9 GHQ protest case, highlighting the judiciary’s strict approach toward absent defendants and procedural compliance.
