In a major legal development, the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore announced its verdict in the May 9 riots case. The case involved senior leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), including Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Dr. Yasmin Rashid.
The court acquitted Shah Mahmood Qureshi, citing lack of evidence. However, in the same case, Yasmin Rashid was sentenced to 10 years in jail for her role in the violent incidents.
Background of the May 9 Riots
The May 9 riots broke out after the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan. Supporters of the party took to the streets, resulting in widespread protests and violence. Several government buildings, including military properties, were attacked.
The government later declared the riots as a serious threat to national security. Hundreds of PTI workers and leaders were arrested across the country. Many were charged under anti-terrorism laws.
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Shah Mahmood Qureshi Acquitted
In its verdict, the ATC stated that Shah Mahmood Qureshi was not found guilty of inciting violence or taking part in any unlawful activity. The court said there was no direct evidence linking him to the planning or execution of the riots.
Qureshi’s legal team welcomed the decision. Speaking to the media, his lawyer said the ruling proves his client’s innocence. He added that the case against Qureshi was politically motivated and lacked any solid ground.
This is a major relief for Qureshi, who had been under detention for several months and was facing multiple charges related to the same incident.
Yasmin Rashid Sentenced to 10 Years
In contrast, the court found Dr. Yasmin Rashid guilty of inciting violence during the May 9 events. She was accused of delivering speeches that provoked protesters to target sensitive military sites.
The court reviewed video footage, call records, and eyewitness accounts before delivering the sentence. Dr. Rashid will serve 10 years in prison under anti-terrorism charges.
Her legal team plans to appeal the verdict. PTI leaders have expressed shock over the sentence, calling it unfair and politically influenced.
Political Reactions and Public Response
The mixed ruling — Shah Mahmood Qureshi acquitted, Yasmin Rashid sentenced to 10 years in May 9 riots case — has sparked a wave of political reactions.
PTI supporters took to social media to celebrate Qureshi’s release. At the same time, they criticized the harsh punishment given to Yasmin Rashid, a senior female leader of the party.
PML-N leaders, on the other hand, welcomed the court’s verdict. They said it showed that justice is being served to those who challenged the state.
Human rights organizations have also weighed in. Some groups have raised concerns about the fairness of mass trials and the use of anti-terror laws in political cases.
What’s Next?
Now that Shah Mahmood Qureshi is acquitted and Yasmin Rashid has been sentenced, PTI faces a legal and political challenge. The party is expected to appeal the court’s decision and continue pushing for the release of its jailed members.
Legal experts say this case may set a precedent for other trials related to the May 9 riots. Several other PTI leaders are still under investigation.
The headline “Shah Mahmood Qureshi acquitted, Yasmin Rashid sentenced to 10 years in May 9 riots case” reflects the changing legal landscape for PTI’s leadership.
