Non-Bailable Arrest Warrants Issued for KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur, PTI Leaders
Key Developments:
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An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore has issued non-bailable arrest warrants for:
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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur
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Former federal minister Hammad Azhar
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PTI leaders Saeed Sindhu & Shahbaz Ahmed
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The case relates to PTI’s October 5, 2024 protest in Lahore, where clashes erupted between party workers and police.
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Lahore police sought the warrants, alleging the accused repeatedly ignored investigation summons.
Background of the Case:
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The protest was part of PTI’s campaign against the federal government, accusing it of political victimization and violating provincial autonomy.
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Violent clashes broke out as PTI supporters marched toward Islamabad, with police using force to disperse crowds.
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CM Gandapur went missing during the chaos, later reappearing in Peshawar, where he accused the federal government of harassment.
Political Fallout:
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The KP Assembly passed a resolution condemning a raid on KP House and demanding Gandapur’s release (initially fearing his arrest).
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Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi denied custody, claiming Gandapur went into hiding voluntarily.
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Gandapur later addressed the assembly, vowing to resist federal “interference” and continue protests.
What’s Next?
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The warrants escalate tensions between PTI and the federal government.
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Legal and political battles are expected as PTI challenges the move, calling it another attempt to suppress opposition.
This case deepens Pakistan’s political crisis, with PTI framing it as state repression, while authorities insist on legal accountability for protest-related violence. The warrants could trigger further unrest, especially if arrests are attempted. The situation remains volatile.
