Pre-arrest bail extended as Islamabad court adjourns hearing till January 27
Sessions Court Stops Arrest of Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi
ISLAMABAD: An Islamabad sessions court on Tuesday stayed the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi in five cases, including those linked to the May 9 incidents, granting them interim relief until the next hearing.
The order was issued by Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka, who also extended their pre-arrest bail, providing temporary legal protection while their bail applications remain pending.
Interim Relief Granted in Five Cases
The court directed that no arrest be made in any of the five cases registered against the PTI founder and Bushra Bibi until the next date of hearing, scheduled for January 27.
The interim relief applies to cases related to the May 9 violence as well as other criminal allegations.
Bail Arguments Deferred
Arguments on the bail applications could not be presented during the hearing due to the non-availability of Imran Khan, prompting the court to adjourn the proceedings.
Counsel for the PTI founder and Bushra Bibi requested additional time, stating that effective arguments could not be made in the absence of the principal accused.
Court Directs Appearance at Next Hearing
The court instructed Imran Khan to ensure his appearance at the next hearing, either in person or through a video link, to allow proceedings on the bail applications to move forward.
Following this direction, the matter was formally adjourned until January 27.
Nature of the Cases
Imran Khan is facing multiple cases, including those related to:
- The May 9 unrest
- Attempted murder
- Submission of fake receipts
- Other related criminal allegations
A separate case has been registered against Bushra Bibi, accusing her of submitting fake receipts.
Legal Obligations Remain in Place
With interim relief granted, both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi remain bound to comply with court directions and appear at the next hearing, where arguments on their bail pleas are expected to be heard.