In Islamabad, the Special Court under the Official Secret Act has made a decision to conduct the trial of PTI Chairman Imran Khan in the Cipher Case. The proceedings took place at the Islamabad Judicial Complex, overseen by Special Court Judge Abul Hasanat Muhammad Zulqarnain.
Despite the court’s directive, both Chairman PTI Imran Khan and Shah Mehmood Qureshi were not brought from Adiala Jail to the judicial complex. The jail authorities cited security concerns and conveyed their inability to present the accused. They have requested additional security from Islamabad Police, highlighting Chairman PTI’s security apprehensions.
Imran Khan’s lawyer, Salman Safdar Advocate, emphasized that it is the jail authorities’ responsibility to ensure the Chairman’s presence in court. Expressing concerns about safety, he questioned whether there’s a threat to Chairman PTI in jail or en route to court. He raised the possibility of complete closure of the judicial complex, stressing the need to ascertain who is at risk—be it the court, the family, or law-abiding lawyers. He also hinted at approaching higher courts if necessary.
Salman Safdar Advocate further pointed out the need for a smoother resolution, questioning the unprecedented speed of this case that was initially projected to conclude in five weeks.
Ali Bukhari Advocate, representing Shah Mehmood Qureshi, emphasized the necessity for an open trial, asserting that the accused must be physically presented in court.
Judge Abulhasnat Zulqarnain highlighted the importance of public and media access to the court proceedings. However, the FIA prosecutor opposed an open trial, suggesting fulfillment of legal requirements within the jail premises. The court was presented with documented evidence by jail authorities citing security concerns as the reason for non-appearance.
The court also addressed Imran Khan’s request for a telephonic conversation with his children, summoning the Superintendent of Adiala Jail and Jail SO for the next hearing.
Ultimately, considering security concerns, the court ruled to conduct Chairman PTI’s trial in jail. It permitted media coverage and public attendance during the upcoming hearing. The next hearing of the cipher case is scheduled to take place in the jail, allowing access to the public and media, with facilitation provided by the jail authorities.