Court Orders Non-Bailable Arrest Warrant for Sixth Time
A Pakistani anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi has once again issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for Aleema Khan, the sister of former Prime Minister and PTI founder Imran Khan. For a detailed report on the case, visit Arrest Warrants Issued for Aleema Khan in Protest Case.
This marks the sixth time the court has issued such an order after Aleema Khan repeatedly failed to appear before the court in connection with a case related to the 26 November protest. The hearing was part of ongoing legal proceedings against several PTI members accused of participating in violent demonstrations held in Rawalpindi following Imran Khan’s political confrontation with the authorities.
Identity Card and Passport Blocked
During Thursday’s hearing, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) submitted a report confirming that Aleema Khan’s national identity card and passport had been blocked. The move aims to prevent her from leaving the country while legal proceedings continue.
The court was informed that despite being repeatedly summoned, Aleema Khan and her lawyer remained absent from the hearing. In contrast, ten other accused individuals and prosecution witnesses attended the session.
Co-Accused Sent to Jail for Failing to Produce Surety
In a related development, another accused, Arif Khan, who had taken custody of a vehicle used during the protest, failed to produce the required surety bond. The court consequently ordered his imprisonment.
Background and Context
Aleema Khan, a businesswoman and prominent public figure, has often been in the spotlight due to her close association with her brother, Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned in multiple corruption and state secrets cases.
The November 2022 protest in Rawalpindi was one of several demonstrations organized by PTI to demand early elections and protest against Imran Khan’s ouster from power. Authorities at the time accused PTI supporters of disrupting public order and damaging property.
The repeated issuance of arrest warrants and the blocking of Aleema Khan’s travel documents reflect a broader crackdown on PTI leaders and supporters. Many analysts view these actions as part of an ongoing standoff between the former ruling party and Pakistan’s powerful establishment.
What Happens Next
The court has directed authorities to ensure Aleema Khan’s presence at the next hearing. If she continues to evade court appearances, law enforcement agencies may be instructed to execute the warrant and bring her before the judge.
As Pakistan’s political climate remains tense, this case adds further strain to an already volatile environment marked by protests, detentions, and a widening divide between PTI and the current government.
