The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi has issued a non-bailable arrest warrant for Aleema Khan, the sister of the PTI founder, in connection with the November 26 protest case.

The order was issued by Special Court Judge Amjad Ali Shah, after Aleema Khan and her lawyer failed to appear before the court during the scheduled hearing. The court also issued a notice to her guarantor and directed that the accused be produced in court at the next hearing.

Court takes notice of non-appearance

During Friday's proceedings, the prosecution informed the court that Aleema Khan had not appeared and had also failed to submit any exemption request from personal attendance.

Prosecutor Zaheer Shah argued that the accused was deliberately avoiding court appearances and obstructing the legal process. He urged the court to issue a non-bailable arrest warrant and a show-cause notice for the cancellation of her bail under Section 497 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

After hearing the arguments, the court accepted the prosecution’s request and issued the non-bailable arrest warrant. The judge also issued a notice to the guarantor, ordering that Aleema Khan be produced at the next hearing.

Prosecution alleges obstruction of legal proceedings

Prosecutor Zaheer Shah told the court that Aleema Khan was taking undue advantage of her bail and hindering the progress of the trial. He maintained that her consistent absence indicated an attempt to evade judicial proceedings.

The court agreed with the prosecution’s assessment, noting that the accused had failed to comply with court directives despite being granted bail earlier.

Next hearing scheduled for Oct 20

Following the issuance of the warrant and notices, the hearing was adjourned until October 20. The court reiterated that the accused must be presented before the next session.

The case pertains to the November 26 protest, during which multiple individuals affiliated with the PTI were charged under terrorism-related sections.