Pakistan Court Summons Imran Khan, Shah Mehmood Qureshi in GHQ Attack Case
Key Developments:
- Court Orders Appearances: An Anti-Terrorism Special Court in Rawalpindi has summoned PTI founder Imran Khan, senior leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi, and 117 others in connection with the GHQ attack case.
- High-Profile Accused: The list includes former Punjab Minister Raja Basharat and KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.
- Jail Court Hearings:
- Imran Khan (currently jailed) must appear in Adiala Jail court.
- Qureshi (also imprisoned) has been ordered to attend the hearing on April 12 from Lahore Jail.
- Expedited Trial: The Supreme Court has mandated case resolution within four months, with bi-weekly hearings to prevent delays.
Legal Proceedings:
- Witness Testimonies:Â Two new witnesses called;Â 25 have already testified.
- Cross-Examination:Â Defence lawyers told to prepare for questioning witnesses.
- Case Record: Investigators must present complete evidence at the next hearing.
- Police & Magistrate Notices:Â Officials involved in the case also summoned.
Context & Implications:
- The case stems from alleged PTI-linked violence during May 9, 2023 protests, when military installations—including GHQ Rawalpindi—were attacked.
- The fast-tracked trial signals judicial urgency, possibly influenced by political tensions.
- PTI alleges political victimization, while authorities insist on legal accountability.
Next Hearing: April 12 – Expected to focus on witness statements and defence arguments.
The GHQ attack case represents a critical legal battle for Imran Khan and PTI, with potential ramifications for Pakistan’s political landscape. The accelerated trial suggests authorities aim for a swift verdict, raising questions over due process amid ongoing crackdowns on the party. The April 12 hearing could set the tone for the case’s trajectory.