SC signals summons for Imran Khan in contempt case as govt affirms serious pursuit
The Supreme Court of Pakistan indicated that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan would need to appear in court if a notice is issued in the ongoing contempt case. The case, linked to allegations of violating a court order during the May 25, 2022, long march, underscores the federal government’s commitment to pursuing legal action against the former prime minister.
During the hearing, Additional Attorney General (AAG) Amir Rehman reaffirmed the government’s resolve to pursue the contempt case. He argued that Imran Khan had violated a court directive during the PTI’s march. Justice Aminuddin Khan, who presided over the seven-member constitutional bench, questioned the government’s intent, to which the AAG responded unequivocally that the matter was being taken seriously.
Also Read:
Justice Aminuddin stated that if the court decided to issue a notice, the PTI founder would have to appear in person. He instructed the relevant parties to make arrangements for presenting the jailed former prime minister before the court if required.
Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail clarified that contempt proceedings are strictly between the court and the accused, urging all sides to avoid emotional rhetoric. He emphasized that the court was offering a clear process to address the allegations.
Salman Akram Raja, representing Imran Khan, informed the bench that his client had already submitted a response to the court. He explained that the verbal order in question had not reached the PTI founder, citing disruptions in mobile communication during the time of the long march. Justice Mussarat Hilali inquired whether a formal notice had been served, to which Raja confirmed that the response was submitted after the notice was received.
Also Read: £190 Million Al-Qadir trust case against Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi enters final stage
The case, which is being heard by a constitutional bench including Justices Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Naeem Akhtar Afghan, and Shahid Bilal Hassan, has significant legal and political implications. The bench adjourned the hearing indefinitely, leaving the timeline for further proceedings uncertain.
Read all the Breaking News Live on pakistantimes.com and Get Latest English News & Updates from Pakistan Times. Follow us on Whatsapp channel for more.
