IHC Takes Key Step Over Arrest of PTI Leaders
The Islamabad High Court has stayed the alleged harassment and arrest of party leaders ahead of the long march announced by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf on September 27.
Justice Raja Inam Amin Minhas heard the petition of PTI leaders Malik Aamir Ali, Shoaib Shaheen and others on Wednesday. Shoaib Shaheen and his lawyer appeared before the independent court on behalf of the petitioners.
During the hearing, Shoaib Shaheen took the stand that raids and arrests against PTI workers have resumed before the September 27 protest. According to him, raids are also being conducted on the homes of some workers.
Shoaib Shaheen told the court that allegations of taking goods and money from their homes during some of the operations have also come to light. He claimed that his family members are also being allegedly harassed.
The petitioner’s lawyer said that the affidavit and CCTV footage regarding these allegations can be presented in the court. He requested the court to provide protection to the concerned leaders from arrest and harassment.
Justice Raja Inam Amin Minhas decided to summon the SSP Operations of Islamabad in the matter. The court directed the police officer to appear in person.
Later, the court directed that Shoaib Shaheen, Malik Aamir Ali and other concerned PTI leaders not be harassed or arrested. The court adjourned further hearing of the case.
This development comes as the PTI prepares for a protest and long march in Islamabad on September 27. The party has mobilized workers from different parts of the country to reach Islamabad. A separate petition related to this protest is also pending in the Islamabad High Court, raising concerns about the possible impact on citizens, traffic and business activities.
