Introduction
An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan has ordered the restoration of bank accounts belonging to Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Numl University. The court issued the directive after the prosecution stated it had no objection to unfreezing these accounts, which had been restricted during an ongoing inquiry.
The case, heard by Judge Amjad Ali Shah, also addressed accounts linked to Aleema Khan, the sister of former prime minister Imran Khan. Her counsel, Muhammad Faisal Malik, appeared on her behalf.
Although the original Urdu report offers limited details, it reflects ongoing legal battles surrounding individuals and institutions associated with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership. The decision to unfreeze the accounts of major charitable and educational institutions has drawn public attention, particularly because both organisations operate independently of political activity.
Background to the Case
Shaukat Khanum Hospital and Numl University are among Pakistan’s most recognised non-profit institutions. Shaukat Khanum, established in 1994, provides cancer treatment to thousands of patients annually, including many who cannot afford private care. Numl University, founded in 2008 in Mianwali, serves as a higher education institution focused on science and technology.
In recent months, several individuals linked to PTI have faced legal scrutiny under various cases, including those filed under anti-terrorism provisions. As part of these investigations, authorities temporarily froze multiple bank accounts to review financial transactions. This freeze affected not only personal accounts but also accounts of institutions associated—directly or indirectly—with prominent political figures.
Prosecutor Raises No Objection to Unfreezing
During the court hearing, Prosecutor Zaheer Shah clarified that the prosecution did not oppose the restoration of Shaukat Khanum and Numll University accounts. He emphasised that the probe did not require these accounts to remain frozen.
He further stated that, aside from Aleema Khan’s business and personal accounts, if any additional accounts had been frozen mistakenly or beyond the scope of the inquiry, the prosecution had no objection to their unfreezing either. This statement signalled that the investigation team had narrowed its focus and did not intend to impede the operations of charitable or educational institutions.
Court Orders Immediate Restoration of Accounts
After hearing the arguments, Judge Amjad Ali Shah ordered the relevant authorities to de-seize (unfreeze) the accounts. The decision is likely to ease operational challenges faced by the two institutions. Hospitals and universities rely on steady cash flow to manage salaries, medicine procurement, patient welfare programmes, and academic operations. Any disruption can have far-reaching consequences.
Although the court’s order pertains exclusively to restoring access, it does not provide further details about the status of other accounts linked to the broader investigation.
Legal Representation for Aleema Khan
Aleema Khan, known primarily for her philanthropic activities and business interests, was represented by advocate Muhammad Faisal Malik. While the report does not elaborate on the specific allegations involving her accounts, previous cases involving political figures’ finances in Pakistan often relate to asset disclosure, tax matters, or scrutiny under broader investigations.
Her lawyer’s presence indicates that the court proceedings also touched on matters involving her finances, even though the primary issue in this particular hearing centred on institutional accounts.
Wider Context
Pakistan’s anti-terrorism courts often handle cases that go beyond traditional terrorism charges. They can include incidents involving political unrest, property damage, or financial inquiries linked to protest movements. In the aftermath of political tensions in recent years, several PTI leaders and supporters have faced cases under such laws.
The restoration of accounts suggests an effort by the judiciary to prevent charitable and public service organisations from suffering due to politically charged investigations. Moreover, it reflects a broader debate within Pakistan about the appropriate scope of financial scrutiny when political cases are underway.
Conclusion
The anti-terrorism court’s decision to unfreeze the accounts of Shaukat Khanum Hospital and Numl University offers temporary relief to both institutions. The prosecutor’s statement that he had no objections played a central role in the ruling. As legal proceedings involving political figures continue, the case highlights the tension between law enforcement efforts and the need to protect public welfare institutions from collateral damage.
