SC Delays Decision on Imran Khan’s May 9 Bail Pleas

ISLAMABAD (RNN TV) — The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Tuesday postponed the hearing of an appeal filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, challenging the Lahore High Court’s (LHC) rejection of his bail pleas in eight cases linked to the May 9 riots, including the high-profile Jinnah House attack.

The hearing was conducted by a two-member bench led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, but was adjourned until August 12 following a request by Khan’s legal counsel, Salman Akram Raja.

Khan had approached the apex court last week, contesting the LHC’s June 24 verdict that dismissed his bail petitions. In his appeal, the former prime minister maintained that the First Information Reports (FIRs) lacked credible evidence and insisted the accusations were baseless.

The petition emphasized that Khan was in National Accountability Bureau (NAB) custody at the time the riots took place, making his involvement implausible. It also highlighted contradictions in the prosecution’s statements, raising doubts over the legitimacy of the case.

Khan further alleged that the police had shown mala fide intent, delaying efforts to arrest him for five months and weakening the credibility of the investigation. The appeal also pointed out that co-accused individuals had already been granted bail in similar cases.

In seeking relief, Khan argued that the evidence was insufficient, and the delayed police statements lacked reliability. He requested the court to recognize his right to bail under these circumstances.

The bail petitions had earlier been dismissed by the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on November 27, 2024, and subsequently by the LHC after both parties concluded their arguments.

The case remains one of the most closely watched legal battles involving Imran Khan, as the political and legal consequences of the May 9 incidents continue to unfold.

Source: Web Desk