In a major development, the Islamabad Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) has declared three senior leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as proclaimed offenders in the Judicial Complex attack case. The court’s decision comes after the repeated absence of Murad Saeed, Hammad Azhar, and Farrukh Habib from the proceedings, leading to their official status as absconders.
PTI Leaders Declared Proclaimed Offenders
During the court hearing, the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) took strict action against the three PTI leaders for failing to appear before the court despite repeated summons. The decision to declare them proclaimed offenders underscores the legal pressure mounting on PTI leadership following political unrest in recent months.
Court’s Decision:
Murad Saeed, Hammad Azhar, and Farrukh Habib declared proclaimed offenders.
Arrest warrants issued for Wasiq Qayyum Abbasi, Raja Basharat, and other absent PTI workers.
The accused have been ordered to appear before the court, failing which further legal action may be taken.
The Judicial Complex Attack Case
The case relates to the violent clashes that erupted at the Islamabad Judicial Complex, where PTI workers and supporters were accused of attacking law enforcement officials, damaging state property, and creating unrest. The ATC is handling the case under anti-terrorism laws, which carry serious legal consequences.
Background of the Case:
The incident took place when PTI supporters gathered at the Judicial Complex, where former Prime Minister Imran Khan was scheduled to appear.
Clashes broke out between PTI workers and law enforcement personnel, resulting in injuries and property damage.
Several party leaders and activists were booked under terrorism-related charges.
Legal Repercussions for PTI Leaders
With the latest court ruling, Murad Saeed, Hammad Azhar, and Farrukh Habib now face increased legal scrutiny, and their status as proclaimed offenders could lead to:
Freezing of assets if they fail to surrender.
Travel bans and restrictions on movement.
Further escalation in legal proceedings, including potential non-bailable arrest warrants.
What Happens Next?
Legal experts suggest that if the PTI leaders do not voluntarily surrender, the court may take additional steps, including:
Confiscation of their properties.
Blocking of bank accounts.
Issuance of red warrants (if they are residing abroad).
Political Fallout and PTI’s Reaction
The PTI leadership has strongly criticized the court’s decision, calling it a politically motivated move to suppress opposition voices. PTI sources claim that:
The cases are fabricated, aimed at targeting party leaders ahead of elections.
The government is using legal means to weaken PTI’s political influence.
PTI will challenge the ruling and continue its legal battle in higher courts.
The declaration of PTI leaders as proclaimed offenders marks another escalation in the legal and political challenges facing the party. With arrest warrants issued and the threat of further legal action looming, the coming weeks could prove critical for PTI and its embattled leadership.
