In a recent development in the Rizwana torture case, the bail application of accused Soumya Asim, the wife of the judge presiding over the case, was heard in the District and Sessions Court Islamabad. The court rejected the bail request after considering the arguments from both sides.
During the hearing, the accused’s lawyer presented their case, stating that Soumya Asim had cooperated with the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) and had objected to the report, asking for access to it. The lawyer emphasized that they had repeatedly urged Rizwana to return home and claimed to possess video evidence of her being fine at a bus stand.
The judge reminded the lawyer that they could present their evidence during the investigation. The police were asked about the written statement of the accused, which was submitted to the court.
The accused’s lawyer argued that the video evidence showed Rizwana in good condition, contradicting the allegations mentioned in the First Information Report (FIR). They also mentioned having additional evidence related to another individual at Mianji Hotel.
The prosecutor countered the defense’s claims, asserting that they were not part of the investigation and accused them of showing a fake video. The prosecutor expressed skepticism about the accused’s intentions and questioned their use of money during the case.
After hearing both sides’ arguments, the court decided to reject Soumya Asim’s bail application. The police were ready to arrest the accused, but the defense lawyers requested to approach the Islamabad High Court, resulting in a brief argument between the police and the legal representatives. Soumya Asim was visibly upset during the proceedings. Eventually, the judge ordered the courtroom to be vacated.
