ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Thursday approved bail for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former prime minister Imran Khan in connection with the May 9 cases, overturning the earlier decision of the Lahore High Court (LHC).
A three-member bench led by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi took up Khan’s appeals after the LHC had rejected his bail applications in eight separate cases linked to the May 9 riots.
During the proceedings, Khan’s counsel argued that the LHC verdict was unjustified and failed to consider key legal grounds supporting bail.
After hearing both sides, the apex court bench issued an oral ruling, with CJP Yahya Afridi announcing acceptance of Khan’s pleas.
The decision is a significant victory for the PTI founder, who has been battling multiple legal challenges since the May 9 incidents.
The Supreme Court’s bail now secures Khan from immediate detention in the eight cases the LHC had previously dismissed.
Legal experts note that while Thursday’s ruling is a breakthrough for the former premier, he still faces several other cases in different courts.
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The May 9 incidents triggered nationwide unrest following the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former prime minister Imran Khan.
Multiple cases were filed against him in connection with violence, protests, and damage to state property.
Earlier, the Lahore High Court (LHC) had dismissed Khan’s bail requests in eight such cases, leaving the PTI chief facing the threat of arrest.
Supreme Court Takes Up the Pleas.
Challenging the LHC’s decision, Khan’s legal team approached the Supreme Court. A three-member bench, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi, was constituted to hear the appeals.
The bench carefully reviewed the arguments presented by both the prosecution and Khan’s counsel.
Arguments Before the Court.
Khan’s lawyers argued that the LHC had overlooked key legal points while rejecting the bail requests and maintained that the charges lacked sufficient evidence.
They further contended that keeping the PTI founder incarcerated without solid grounds would constitute a violation of his constitutional rights. The prosecution, however, urged the court to maintain the earlier verdict.
Oral verdict by the Chief Justice.
After deliberations, the Supreme Court bench announced its decision. CJP Yahya Afridi delivered an oral verdict.
The Supreme Court bench accepted Khan’s pleas and granted him bail in all eight cases of the May 9 events.
The ruling effectively set aside the LHC judgement and offered significant relief to the former prime minister.
Political and Legal Significance.
The verdict is considered a significant legal victory for Imran Khan at a time when he continues to grapple with numerous cases across the country.
While the bail provides temporary relief, Khan’s legal challenges are far from over, as he remains entangled in other high-profile cases awaiting trial.
Next Steps for the PTI Founder.
With bail now secured in the eight May 9 cases, Khan avoids immediate detention in these matters. His legal team expected to focus on defending him in the remaining cases.
At the same time, the political implications of the Supreme Court’s decision are likely to shape ongoing developments within Pakistan’s political landscape.