In a significant ruling on Tuesday, an anti-terrorism court in Sargodha sentenced Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Ahmed Khan Bachar, along with MNA Mohammad Ahmed Chattha and several other Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members, to 10 years in prison each. This conviction stems from their involvement in the May 9, 2023, riots, which were sparked by the controversial arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan. The court’s decision adds to the ongoing legal saga related to the violent protests that shook the nation last year.
The case, which was originally filed in Mianwali, centers around the widespread destruction and unrest following Imran Khan’s arrest in a corruption case. The protests escalated into riots, leading to attacks on public and military properties, including the infamous attack on the Jinnah House in Lahore, a military installation that housed the Corps Commander.
While Bachar was not present for the sentencing, the court granted an exemption for all 32 accused individuals, including him, from appearing in person. The verdict comes amid ongoing legal action involving several PTI figures. In the past month, the Lahore High Court (LHC) also dismissed bail petitions for Imran Khan in connection to the May 9 incidents, including charges related to the attack on the Jinnah House.
The May 9 riots followed the dramatic arrest of Imran Khan from the Islamabad High Court, a move that sparked nationwide protests. These riots were marked by violence and resulted in severe damage to both public and military assets across the country. Although many PTI leaders and workers were granted bail after their arrest, a significant number, including Khan, remain incarcerated.
Imran Khan, who was ousted from power following a no-confidence vote in April 2022, has faced a series of charges, including corruption, terrorism, and incitement to violence. His legal battles continue to unfold, with the PTI’s leadership and its workers still in the spotlight for their role in the May 9 disturbances.
