LAHORE: The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore has ordered a 10-day physical remand for the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan, in connection with 12 cases related to the events of May 9.
The remand pertains to multiple cases registered against Khan at various police stations, including Sarwar Road, Gulberg, Race Course, Shadman, Mughalpura, and Model Town.
Imran Khan was produced via video link due to ‘security concerns’ cited by the prosecutor.
During the court proceedings, Khan argued before the judge, stating that his intention was for a peaceful protest despite the allegations against him. He emphasized that he had requested a judicial inquiry into the incidents of May 9 and urged the Chief Justice of Pakistan to intervene.
“I have never incited violence in my 28-year history,” Khan asserted, denying any involvement in the May 9 riots. He pointed out discrepancies regarding CCTV footage and the handling of his requests.
Advocate Azhar Siddique, representing Khan, argued for his client’s innocence, highlighting a lack of evidence against him over Pakistan’s 72-year history.
In response, the public prosecutor referenced a video uploaded by Khan on May 9, 2023, which is under scrutiny for verification.
Judge Khalid Arshad Malik assured that the arguments would be documented and decisions made based on legal merits. However, he raised concerns over Khan’s absence in court, citing security reasons provided by the prosecution.
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