ATC Issues Non-Bailable Arrest Warrant for Aleema Khan in Connection with November 26 Protest
RAWALPINDI — An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi on Monday issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for Aleema Khan, the sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, in connection with the November 26 protest held by the party. The court has ordered the police to arrest Aleema and present her before the court on October 22.
Continued Absence Leads to Arrest Warrant
The arrest warrant was issued by ATC Judge Amjad Ali Shah after Aleema Khan’s continued absence from the court proceedings related to the protest staged by PTI. The case pertains to the protest, which was part of PTI’s efforts to pressure the government for the release of Imran Khan, who has been in detention since August 2023.
Aleema Khan, along with nine other individuals, was indicted in the case registered at Sadiqabad Police Station. Those indicted along with her include Sajid Qureshi, Atif Riaz, Faheem Razaq, Adalat Khan Qureshi, Mursalin Kiani, Tayyab Abbas Shah, Umar Shah Muhammad Hanif, and Ali Raza.
Guarantor’s Arrest Warrant Issued
In addition to issuing the arrest warrant for Aleema Khan, the court also issued a non-bailable warrant for her guarantor, Umer Sharif. The court has further instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Rawalpindi to verify the property documents submitted by Sharif as part of the guarantee.
November 26 Protest and Violent Clashes
The protest, organized by PTI on November 26, 2024, was aimed at pressuring the government to release Imran Khan, who was jailed after multiple charges, including corruption and terrorism, were filed against him following his removal from office in April 2022. The protest was marked by violence, with clashes erupting between law enforcement and protesters, leading to the martyrdom of at least three Rangers personnel and a police officer. The protests, which lasted for three days, were eventually called off after the deadly confrontations.
Legal Consequences for PTI Leaders
This arrest warrant against Aleema Khan further escalates the legal challenges facing PTI leaders and their affiliates. With Imran Khan still in prison, the party’s ongoing legal battles and protests have continued to shape the political landscape in Pakistan.
As the court proceedings progress, the arrest of Aleema Khan and the legal ramifications for PTI continue to draw attention. The upcoming hearing on October 22 will likely provide more clarity on the direction of the case and its broader political implications.
