The Anti-Terrorism Court has rejected the bail application of former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in two cases filed at the Khana police station.
Additionally, the court has also turned down the applications for an exception and summons.
The bail application hearing for Shah Mahmood Qureshi was presided over by Anti-Terrorism Court Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain. During the proceedings, Ali Bukhari, the Advocate representing Qureshi, argued that his client should either be summoned or have his bail extended.
The prosecution, however, requested that Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s bail be denied. Ali Bukhari Advocate clarified that Qureshi’s absence was not deliberate, as he was already in jail. He emphasized that a judge should consider all perspectives.
The court questioned the motive behind the police’s actions in this case. In response, Ali Bukhari Advocate stated that they had been prepared to present their arguments during the previous three hearings. He requested an exception for the day since the bail had been denied only the day before, without seeking any extraordinary relief.
The prosecutor pointed out that the Supreme Court has mandated the presence of the accused for bail before arrest. Ali Bukhari Advocate argued that if Qureshi were intentionally absent, his bail could be revoked. After hearing both sides, the court reserved its decision.
Subsequently, the court dismissed Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s bail application before arrest and also rejected the exception and summons applications. It emphasized that the presence of the accused is a necessary requirement for bail before arrest, citing established law. Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s lawyer then requested an exception from attendance for the day.
It’s important to note that Shah Mehmood Qureshi is presently in Adiala jail on judicial remand in connection with the cipher case.