Anti-Terrorism Court Grants Bail to PTI Workers Arrested During November Protests
An anti-terrorism court has granted bail to 18 Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers who were detained during protests on November 24 and 26, 2024, in Attock and Rawalpindi. The court’s decision has resulted in the workers’ release after 92 days in detention, with individuals being freed from various jails, including those in Attock, Jhelum, and Adiala.
Key Points:
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Bail Approval:
The anti-terrorism court has approved the bail of 18 PTI workers, who had been arrested during protests earlier in November 2024. The court ordered their release after 92 days of detention in various jails. -
Legal Arguments:
Defence lawyers Imran Abbasi and Faisal Malik argued that their clients were arrested from their homes under unclear circumstances, without facing any formal charges. They also contended that protesting is a constitutional right and should not be criminalized. -
Court’s Ruling:
The court granted bail based on insufficient evidence against the detainees. However, each worker is required to submit surety bonds worth Rs0.1 million as a condition for their release. -
Workers Released:
The workers who have been released include Umar Farooq, Obaidullah Khan, Zainul Abidin, Wajahat Ali, Tayyab Nasir, Khawar Ali, Murtaza Khan, Muhammad Haroon, Lala Sher, Naeem Gul, and Fatah Khan. They had been arrested by police from various stations, including Hassan Abdal Saddar, Hazro, and Rawalpindi. -
Upcoming Hearings:
Bail hearings for an additional 1,249 PTI workers arrested during the same protests are scheduled to begin on March 3, 2025.
The court’s decision to grant bail to 18 PTI workers highlights the ongoing legal battles following the November protests. The workers’ release marks a significant development, but the legal process continues for many others who remain detained. The case brings attention to the broader issue of political protests and civil rights within Pakistan.
