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Reflecting on the 1st Anniversary of the May 9 incident in Pakistan

How has Pakistan changed after that May 9 incident?

  • Has changed for the better

    Votes: 3 21.4%

  • Become more polarised

    Votes: 6 42.9%

  • No difference

    Votes: 5 35.7%
  • Total voters
    14

PPP, PML-N slam PTI founder over May 9 apology stance​


The ruling coalition of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have doubled down on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan over his stance on tendering "conditional apology" regarding May 9 riots.

Speaking on Geo News' programme "Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath" on Wednesday, senior PML-N leader and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's Adviser on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah said: "They organised it [riots] themselves [....] He [Imran Khan] knows that his people are in the [CCTV] videos [of attacks]".

Sanaullah's statement comes after Khan on Wednesday announced seeking a conditional apology over the May 9 riots, saying that the CCTV footage of the violent protests should be produced beforehand.

Speaking to reporters in a makeshift courtroom set up inside Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail, the former prime minister said that he would apologise if the PTI activists were found involved in the May 9 riots which provisioned attacks on military installations in many parts of the country, prompting the civil and military leadership to try the rioters under the Army Act.

The PTI chief, who has been incarcerated in Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail for around a year now, has time and again distanced his party from the protests, alleging that the riots were pre-planned and staged to launch a crackdown on the opposition party.

"I will sack and myself seek punishment for the PTI members if they were found involved [in the May 9 incidents]," he added.

However, the government has time again blamed the Khan-founded party for intentionally attacking state institutions' buildings and properties.

On Monday, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry reiterated the military's stance on May 9 culprits that those responsible for the riots must be punished as per the Constitution and law to preserve the credibility and faith in the country’s justice system.

Commenting on the PTI founder's remarks on the evidence regarding the May 9 riots, Sanaullah said that the importance of evidence will only come to the limelight once the trial starts.

It is to be noted that though the incarcerated prime minister has secured relief in various cases, he still remains embroiled in several cases related to his alleged involvement in the May 9 incidents.

Speaking to Geo News today, PML-N Senator Talal Chaudhry echoed his colleague’s remarks and slammed Khan for considering himself above the law and the Constitution.

Noting that enough evidence exists regarding PTI's involvement in the riots, the lawmaker said that there is footage showing PTI founder's sisters and his nephew leading the attack on Lahore’s Corps Commander’s House.

"Their [PTI's] dozens of leaders were arrested who confessed [to party's involvement] and [later] apologised on television and parted ways with the party," Chaudhry said.

Echoing the PML-N leader's comments, PPP Senator Sherry Rehman has called on the PTI founder to tender an unconditional public apology for the May 9 riots.

"PTI leaders and office bearers were seen leading the May 9 protests across the country," Rehman said.

Noting that the former ruling party's violent protests were covered by the national media, the PPP leader questioned why this evidence wasn't enough.

"The entire PTI leadership is responsible for inciting the workers," she said.

www.thenews.com.pk

PPP, PML-N slam PTI founder over May 9 apology stance

The ruling coalition of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party have doubled down on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan over his stance on tendering conditional...
www.thenews.com.pk www.thenews.com.pk
 

Court denies Bushra Bibi’s bail plea in 12 cases tied to May 9 violence​


A court in Rawalpindi has rejected Bushra Bibi's bail application in 12 cases related to the events of May 9 on Monday.

An anti-terrorism court, presided over by Judge Malik Ejaz Asif, stated that it is necessary to conduct a thorough investigation when an individual is implicated in multiple cases.

Consequently, the court dismissed Bushra Bibi's bail application.

The court, during a hearing at Adiala Jail, ordered the investigation into these cases to be completed within seven days.

The incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan was presented in the courtroom.

Other PTI leaders including Sheikh Rashid, Shibli Faraz, Ghulam Sarwar Khan, Sadaqat Abbasi, Shireen Mazari, and Azam Swati, appeared in court, over 500 accused individuals connected to the May 9 incidents were also presented in the court

Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, and other accused individuals were represented by their legal counsel, led by Muhammad Faisal Malik.

The court has adjourned the hearing of the May 9 cases until August 22.

On August 6, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) had summoned Rawalpindi's deputy inspector general (DIG) operations in a case related to the provision of information about the first information reports (FIRs) related to May 9, 2023 rioting in which former prime minister Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi has been booked.

IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq heard the petition requesting details of the cases registered against Bushra Bibi, and seeking to prevent her arrest in any unknown case while providing an opportunity to her to approach the relevant court.

The petitioner's lawyer, Sardar Latif Khosa, appeared in court and argued that Bushra Bibi has been implicated in the cases related to May 9. In one case, it was stated that the investigation had not begun, but she was to be arrested.

On August 9, the Accountability Court (ATC) extended the physical remand of former premier Imran and his wife Bushra Bibi for another 11 days in the new Toshakhana case.

Accused Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were produced before ATC judge Nasir Javed Rana in Adiala Jail. NAB's investigating officer Mohsin Haroon and deputy prosecutor general Sardar Muzaffar appeared before the court.

The NAB counsel informed the court that the accused cooperated with the investigating team only twice during the previous 10-day physical remand. The NAB requested the court to extend the physical remand for two weeks in order to complete the investigation.

tribune.com.pk

Court denies Bushra Bibi’s bail plea in 12 cases tied to May 9 riots | The Express Tribune

ATC at Adiala Jail ordered investigations into cases to be completed within seven days during the hearing.
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
Imran Khan, Gen Faiz involved in May 9 episode: Khawaja Asif

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Wednesday PTI founder Imran Khan and former spymaster Lt General Faiz Hameed were involved in the May 9 episode.

He made this remark while talking on Dunya News’ ‘On The Front’ in which he said PTI leader Rauf Hassan was arrested during a raid at party’s office and later former spymaster Faiz Hameed was also taken into custody over his connections with PTI.

He added that the former DG ISI’s role in politics was very clear and he had helped Imran Khan through all means possible.

The minister mentioned that the May 9 event could not have occurred without the support of a powerful person and the name of Faiz Hameed had some connection in this regard.

He added that the PTI founder and Faiz Hameed had created controversies surrounding the appointment of the army chief.

I have also made speeches against the establishment but I have never crossed a line, “ said the defence minister.


Dunya News
 

Police complete first phase of interrogation with Bushra Bibi on May 9 events​


A police team has completed the first phase of interrogation with Bushra Bibi, wife of former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, in connection with the May 9 events at Adiala Jail.

The investigation team, led by SP Faisal Saleem, included DSP Sikandar, DSP Fauzia, and Inspectors Qaiser, Yaqoob Shah, and Husnain Ali from the Rawalpindi police.

According to jail sources, the Rawalpindi police team conducted a 30-minute interrogation with Bushra Bibi regarding the events of May 9 on Thursday.

The team questioned her about protests and acts of arson in Rawalpindi, and sought details on the planning of protests at sensitive locations.

The sources added that the police asked Bushra Bibi various questions based on collected evidence during the interrogation.

It is noteworthy that an anti-terrorism court has directed the police to complete their interrogation with Bushra Bibi within a week.

Earlier, on August 12, the court had rejected Bushra Bibi's bail in 12 cases.

tribune.com.pk

Police complete first phase of interrogation with Bushra Bibi on May 9 events | The Express Tribune

Rawalpindi police team conducted a 30-minute interrogation with Imran Khan’s incarcerated wife at Adiala Jail, say sources
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 

Police seek Bushra Bibi's remand in 12 cases related to May 9 riots​


Bushra Bibi, the wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) Founder Imran Khan, has been found guilty by the police in connection with the May 9 cases.

As reported by Express News on Friday, the police have requested Bushra Bibi's physical remand in 12 cases, prompting the Anti-Terrorism Court to summon her on August 17 (Saturday).

The court has ordered the National Accountability Bureau's (NAB) investigation team to present Bushra Bibi in court at 8 AM on Saturday. The court will make a decision regarding her physical remand tomorrow.

The police have stated that the preliminary investigation of Bushra Bibi in relation to the May 9 incidents has been completed, and she has been found culpable. The hearings for the police requests from 12 stations were conducted by Judge Malik Ejaz Asif.

Bushra Bibi was implicated based on statements from dissident PTI leaders Sadaqat Abbasi, Wasiq Qayyum, and Umar Tanveer Butt.

The court has also asked the police to provide the initial investigation report and evidence of her involvement. Bushra Bibi has been named in cases related to the attacks on GHQ Gate 4 and the Army Museum.

Additionally, she has been implicated in cases involving the attack on a sensitive agency's office on Murree Road, the burning of a metro station, and the torching of a sensitive building in Saddar.

Furthermore, Bushra Bibi has been named in cases involving arson and vandalism on Murree Road, Taxila, and Hazro Attock.

tribune.com.pk

Police seek Bushra Bibi's remand in 12 cases related to May 9 riots | The Express Tribune

ATC orders NAB's investigation team to present her in court at 8 AM tomorrow
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
Bushra Bibi discharged in 12 cases related to May 9 riots

Former PM Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi was exonerated from all charges in 12 cases related to May 9 incidents.

Bushra Bibi along with PTI founder was involved in May 9 related cases. Anti-Terrorism Court Judge Malik Ijaz Asif heard the police's request for her physical remand.

After a detailed hearing, the anti-terrorism court rejected the police's application for Bushra Bibi's physical remand. The police aimed to investigate her in 12 cases, including the GHQ attack case. However, her lawyer, Salman Safdar, represented her and opposed the police requests in the anti-terrorism court.

The court, after hearing both sides, exonerated Bushra Bibi in May 9 cases.


Dunya News
 
Court acquits former MNA Aliya Hamza in May 9 case

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Gujranwala has acquitted former MNA Aliya Hamza in the case related to the May 9 incidents.

During the court proceedings, neither Aliya Hamza nor her lawyers appeared in court.

Subsequently, the court ruled in favour of Aliya Hamza, clearing her of charges in the May 9 case.

It is noted that Aliya Hamza was arrested by Gujranwala police upon her release from Sargodha jail and was named an accused in a case registered at the Cantonment police station. She faced allegations of conspiring in the May 9 attacks.


Dunya News
 
ATC cancels Aliya Hamza, Sanam Javed's arrest warrants in May 9 cases

An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore has canceled the arrest warrants of PTI leaders Aliya Hamza and Sanam Javed in connection with the May 9 arson cases at the Shadman and Mughalpura police stations.

During the hearing, which took place in jail, prominent PTI leaders including Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Umar Sarfraz Cheema, and Dr Yasmin Rashid were present.

Dr Yasmin Rashid attempted to speak, but Judge Khalid Arshad advised her not to argue. The judge mentioned that he was relinquishing his charge and suggested that when the new judge assumes duty, they could discuss matters openly.

“We have been in jail for the last 15 months, and four judges have been transferred. They want a Capitol Hill-like decision in the May 9 cases, but the cases aren't even being heard,” Umar Sarfraz Cheema told the judge.

The judge then adjourned the hearing until Sept 9.


dunyanews.tv

ATC cancels Aliya Hamza, Sanam Javed's arrest warrants in May 9 cases

The judge adjourned the hearing until Sept 9
dunyanews.tv dunyanews.tv
 

Fawad Chaudhry, Azam Swati's interim bails extended in May 9 cases​


Lahore’s anti-terrorism court (ATC) has extended the interim bails of PTI leaders, Azam Swati and Fawad Chaudhry in May 9 cases.

ATC Judge Manzar Ali Gul heard the bail pleas in various cases related to May 9.

ATC ordered the extension in Fawad Chaudhry’s interim bail till November 8 while Azam Swati granted extension until Nov 26.

Rai Hassan Nawaz, Shakeel Niazi, Rai Murtaza Iqbal and others were given extension in interim bail till Nov 13.

The court also ordered Azam Swati, Rai Hassan Nawaz and Mussarat Cheema to be part of the investigation on Nov 2 at 2pm.

Judge Arshad Javed of ATC Lahore heard the bail pleas of both sisters, Aleema and Uzma Khan in vandalism case and granted them interim bail till Nov 8.

dunyanews.tv

Fawad Chaudhry, Azam Swati's interim bails extended in May 9 cases

Other PTI leaders given extension in interim bail till Nov 13.
dunyanews.tv dunyanews.tv
 

Islamabad ATC issues detailed verdict in May 9 case​


An anti-terrorism court (ATC) has issued a detailed verdict in the first case related to the May 9 incidents involving PTI workers.

Judge Tahir Abbas Supra released the 15-page decision, where 10 accused on bail appeared in court, while 6 were declared absconders, with arrest warrants issued against them.

Ten PTI workers were sentenced to four years imprisonment under various charges. Those released on bail were sentenced to one month in prison under Section 341 with a fine of Rs1,000.

Under Section 186, the accused were given three months imprisonment and a fine of Rs1,000. For Section 353, the court sentenced them to two years imprisonment and a fine of Rs20,000.

Additionally, under Section 188, they received six months imprisonment and a fine of Rs3,000 each.

The decision also imposed a three-year sentence and Rs20,000 fine under Section 149, while issuing non-bailable arrest warrants for the six absconders.

The judgment noted that charges under Sections 382 and 436 could not be proven, and while the accused were linked to a political party, the complaints did not mention this explicitly. Therefore, they were acquitted of terrorism charges and Sections 382 and 436.

dunyanews.tv

Islamabad ATC issues detailed verdict in May 9 case

10 PTI workers were sentenced to four years imprisonment under various charges.
dunyanews.tv dunyanews.tv
 

Eight PTI leaders including Murad Saeed, Hammad Azhar declared absconders in May 9 case​


A court has declared eight senior leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), including Murad Saeed and Hammad Azhar, as absconders in a case related to the burning of containers during the 9 May protests, Express News reported.

The anti-terrorism court in Lahore, presided over by Judge Arshad Javed, declared the PTI leaders absconders in the case concerning the incidents at Kalma Chowk on 9 May. Other PTI leaders named in the court's ruling include Mian Aslam Iqbal, Zubair Khan Niazi, Hamid Raza Gilani, Mohammad Javed, Abdul Samad, and Waseeq Qayoom.

The court also issued permanent arrest warrants for the absconding leaders, who are accused of being involved in the violent protests that followed the arrest of PTI Chairman Imran Khan.

The action was taken following a request from police, who claimed that the suspects had gone into hiding to avoid arrest. Despite the warrants being issued, the accused have not been apprehended.

This development comes as part of a wider crackdown on PTI leaders involved in the unrest on 9 May, which resulted in significant damage to public and private property.

tribune.com.pk

Eight PTI leaders including Murad Saeed, Hammad Azhar declared absconders in May 9 case | The Express Tribune

ATC also issued permanent arrest warrants for absconding PTI leaders, who are accused of being involved in protests
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
Shireen Mazari, 8 others indicted in May 9 GHQ attack case

Former PTI leader Shireen Mazari was indicted on Monday along with eight others in a case concerning the attack on the army’s General Headquarters in Rawalpindi during violent protests, prompted by the arrest of the PTI founder in a corruption case on May 9 last year.

Imran, who has been incarcerated in Adiala Jail since August 2023, was arrested by the Rawalpindi police in the May 9 protest case in January, whereas the police arrested his aides Omar Ayub and ex-Punjab law minister Raja Basharat after the indictment by an anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi.

Earlier this month, anti-terrorism court (ATC) judge Amjad Ali Shah indicted Imran and several leaders and supporters of the PTI in the same case.

The PTI founder was produced in a courtroom in Adiala Jail, where the hearing was conducted by Judge Shah.

The prosecution filed applications to suspend the bail of almost two dozen suspects, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.

The court indicted former human rights minister Mazari along with eight others.

Three of the accused — Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Colonel Ajmal Sabir Raja, and Sikandar Zeb — refused to sign the charge sheet, saying the evidence against them was insufficient. They said their 265D application should be heard first, and they would sign the charge sheet after the decision of their application.

Imran did not appear before the media for a talk, but he met with PTI leaders such as Fawad Chaudhry, Babar Awan, Sheikh Rasheed and others.

Meanwhile, Shah Mahmood Qureshi was sent to Lahore in the presence of heavy security.

Gandapur had arrived at Adiala Jail to meet with Imran but he was not permitted entry, and his convoy was stopped outside Adiala Jail gate 5. The convoy then left for Gorakhpur.

Source: Dawn News
 

PTI leaders Shah Mehmood Qureshi, CM Gandapur among 14 indicted in May 9 GHQ attack case​

Former foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur were among 14 PTI members and leaders indicted on Thursday in a case concerning the attack on the army’s General Headquarters (GHQ) during violent protests on May 9, 2023.

Following the arrest of former prime minister and PTI founder Imran Khan on May 9, 2023, from the Islamabad High Court’s premises, riots erupted across the country that went on for at least 24 hours. At least 10 people lost their lives and hundreds sustained injuries, while approximately 40 public buildings and military installations were damaged, including Lahore Corps Commander’s House (Jinnah House) and Askari Tower in Lahore, GHQ in Rawalpindi, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Office in Faisalabad, FC Fort in Chakdara, Radio Pakistan building in Peshawar, Toll Plaza at Swat Motorway and the Mianwali Air Base.

The state then launched a severe crackdown on his party, rounding up thousands of PTI workers and almost the entire top-tier leadership, with many still facing court proceedings under serious charges.

Other PTI leaders and members indicted today included Senate opposition leader Shibli Faraz, Shehryar Afridi, Kanwal Shauzab, Latasab Satti, Umar Tanveer Butt, Taimur Masood, Saad Ali Khan, Sikandar Zeb, Zohaib Afridi, Fahad Masood and Raja Nasir Mahfouz.

A total of 113 PTI leaders and supporters have been indicted in this case so far.

CM Gandapur, Afridi and Shauzab filed applications under Section 265-D of the Criminal Procedure Code, which deals with framing charges against an accused.

A hearing on these applications has been scheduled for tomorrow at the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Adiala Jail. Should Gandapur appear in court tomorrow, his arrest warrant will be cancelled, the judge said.

Gandapur appointed lawyer Ghulam Hasnain Sumbal as his pleader in tomorrow’s hearing and in 12 other cases related to May 9.

Shireen Mazari was indicted along with eight others in the case on Monday. During that hearing, three of the accused — Qureshi, Colonel Ajmal Sabir Raja, and Zeb — refused to sign the charge sheet, saying the evidence against them was insufficient.

Earlier this month, Imran was indicted in the same case by ATC Judge Amjad Ali Shah alongside several PTI leaders and supporters.

Imran, who has been incarcerated in Adiala Jail since August 2023, was arrested by the Rawalpindi police in the May 9 protest case in January this year.

‘I am being targeted for political revenge’

Following today’s hearing, Qureshi spoke to reporters at Adiala Jail, stating that he was being “targeted for political revenge” in the case, reiterating his request to be “heard by the party”.

“I was in Karachi on May 9, not Rawalpindi,” Qureshi told reporters. “I say take mine and the prosecutor’s oaths on May 9 under Section 16 of the ATA (Anti-Terrorism Act).”

Qureshi added that he was due to meet PTI leader Salman Akram Raja at Kot Lakhpat jail on Monday, however, Qureshi was in Rawalpindi and could not make the meeting.

“My point of view is that I should also be heard in the party,” Qureshi said. “There is a tradition of consultation in politics … I am the only member of the PTI who has served at the local, provincial and federal level.”

Speaking about the party’s civil disobedience campaign, the ex-foreign minister suggested to Imran that the movement be “postponed”.

“We formed a negotiation team at the government’s request, now they (the government) need to be serious,” he said.

“This country needs political stability to ensure economic progress and security. The government needs to start negotiating,” Qureshi emphasised.

www.dawn.com

PTI leaders Shah Mehmood Qureshi, CM Gandapur among 14 indicted in May 9 GHQ attack case

A total of 113 PTI members and supporters indicted in the case.
www.dawn.com
 

ATC throws out acquittal pleas of PTI leaders including Imran, Qureshi in GHQ case​


A Rawalpindi anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Friday rejected acquittal pleas of PTI leaders including party founder Imran Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the GHQ attack case.

The court also rejected the acquittal pleas of PTI leaders Shibli Faraz, Shahryar Afridi, Kanwal Shauzab, Umar Tanvir Butt and former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry.

Special Public Prosecutor Zaheer Shah presented arguments against the acquittal petitions, while lawyers Faisal Chaudhry and Faisal Malik represented the PTI leaders along with the legal team.

Rejecting the pleas, the ATC said acquittal petitions became infructuous after the indictment of the accused in the case.

The court also rejected the pleas of four accused to go abroad due to incomplete documents.

A day earlier, ATC Rawalpindi Judge Amjad Ali Shah indicted PTI leader Qureshi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur among 14 in the GHQ attack case.

A total of 113 suspects have been indicted in the case so far while the court also summoned the other six accused named in the case tomorrow (Saturday).

The GHQ attack case emanated from the May 9 riots that broke out in several parts of the country following the arrest of former PM Imran in a corruption case.

The violent protests also saw attacks on public properties including military installations including the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, the corps commander's house in Lahore and others.

The attacks and ransacking of the army properties resulted in the registration of dozens of cases against the PTI leaders and workers, with several members facing trial under the Army Act.

www.thenews.com.pk

Acquittal pleas of Imran, Qureshi dismissed in GHQ case

A Rawalpindi anti-terrorism court on Friday rejected acquittal pleas of PTI leaders including party founder Imran Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the GHQ attack case.The...
www.thenews.com.pk www.thenews.com.pk
 
No need of reflection, the “Peace” is maintained thanks to Establishment as we have been told on the France Germany thread.
 
May 9 accountability incomplete until planners caught: Khawaja Asif

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif on Saturday emphasised that justice for the May 9 violence will remain incomplete until the planners behind the tragedy are apprehended.

He criticised delays in delivering swift justice, stating that such postponements embolden the accused and their facilitators.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Khawaja Asif addressed the sentencing of 25 individuals involved in the events of May 9, 2023, by military courts. The sentences, handed down by the Field General Court Martial, range up to 10 years.

He remarked that while the law has reached the "necks of the workers who were used," it has yet to catch the masterminds behind the day’s violent acts.

"The series of accountability should not end until the planners of this terrible day are brought to justice," Asif said.

He added that those who insulted martyrs and ghazis were wrongfully glorified, and the failure to denounce the violence of that day amounted to tacit approval of such acts.

What happened on May 9?


The violence stemmed from nationwide protests following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan from the Islamabad High Court premises in the Al-Qadir Trust case.

The protests, spearheaded by supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), escalated into widespread unrest, including attacks on military and civilian installations.

In Lahore's Model Town, demonstrators set fire to the PML-N office, government properties, and private structures. Military installations also came under attack, causing extensive damage.

The violence left at least eight people dead and 290 injured.

SAMAA
 
BouncerGuy said:
May 9 accountability incomplete until planners caught: Khawaja Asif

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif on Saturday emphasised that justice for the May 9 violence will remain incomplete until the planners behind the tragedy are apprehended.

He criticised delays in delivering swift justice, stating that such postponements embolden the accused and their facilitators.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Khawaja Asif addressed the sentencing of 25 individuals involved in the events of May 9, 2023, by military courts. The sentences, handed down by the Field General Court Martial, range up to 10 years.

He remarked that while the law has reached the "necks of the workers who were used," it has yet to catch the masterminds behind the day’s violent acts.

"The series of accountability should not end until the planners of this terrible day are brought to justice," Asif said.

He added that those who insulted martyrs and ghazis were wrongfully glorified, and the failure to denounce the violence of that day amounted to tacit approval of such acts.

What happened on May 9?


The violence stemmed from nationwide protests following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan from the Islamabad High Court premises in the Al-Qadir Trust case.

The protests, spearheaded by supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), escalated into widespread unrest, including attacks on military and civilian installations.

In Lahore's Model Town, demonstrators set fire to the PML-N office, government properties, and private structures. Military installations also came under attack, causing extensive damage.

The violence left at least eight people dead and 290 injured.

SAMAA
Click to expand...
This is massive miscarriage of justice. IA the truth will out and Naqvi and friends had no evidence and stole the CCTV evidence so they used kangaroo courts to jail innocent people when those that planned this are today the chairman of the PCB etc.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Bewal Express said:
This is massive miscarriage of justice. IA the truth will out and Naqvi and friends had no evidence and stole the CCTV evidence so they used kangaroo courts to jail innocent people when those that planned this are today the chairman of the PCB etc.
Click to expand...
"A government of pagans could survive but not of injustice" ~ Hazrat Ali
 
Former PTI MNA Bilal Ahmed indicted in GHQ attack case

A Rawalpindi Anti Terrorism Court (ATC) has formally indicted former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA Bilal Ahmed in the GHQ attack case, ARY News reported.

According to reports, ATC judge Amjad Ali Shah indicted the former Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Bilal Ahmed in the GHQ attack case, with charges framed through his legal representative.

The Rawalpindi court granted two other accused until 3 p.m today to appear before the court. The hearing of the case has been adjourned until January 6.

Additionally, former PTI MPA Latasub Satti filed a request to travel for Umrah, but the court dismissed the application due to incomplete documentation.


arynews.tv

Former PTI MNA Bilal Ahmed indicted in GHQ attack case

RAWALPINDI: A Rawalpindi Anti Terrorism Court (ATC) has formally indicted former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA Bilal Ahmed in the GHQ attack case,
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 

No clean chit for May 9 events: Apex court CB deliberates trial process​


The Supreme Court of Pakistan's Constitutional Bench has remarked about the legal and constitutional complexities surrounding the trials of civilians in military courts over their alleged involvement in the May 9 attacks.

The seven-judge bench, led by Justice Aminuddin Khan, heard the appeals challenging the military trial process.

Justice Jamal Mandokhail emphasised that crimes committed during the May 9 incidents cannot be denied, but the critical issue remains the jurisdiction of the trials.

“The question is not whether a crime occurred, but where the trial should be conducted,” Justice Mandokhail remarked.

The discussion centred on the 21st Amendment, which established the framework for military courts.

Justice Mandokhail pointed out that the amendment specifically prohibits political parties’ cases from being tried in military courts, raising concerns about the application of the Army Act to civilians.

Defending the government’s position, Khawaja Haris, counsel for the Defence Ministry, argued that the Army Act and its rules ensure a fair trial process.

He cited past cases, including the Supreme Court’s Liaqat Hussain verdict, to justify the use of military courts.

However, the bench sought clarification on whether this aligns with constitutional principles.

Justice Musarrat Hilali highlighted the public fear and chaos during the May 9 events, including incidents of arson, looting, and attacks on government properties.

She questioned the outcome of trials for crimes such as theft and property damage that are unrelated to military installations.

Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi drew attention to the severity of the attacks, citing the torching of the Lahore Corps Commander’s residence and coordinated assaults across multiple cities.

“These were not ordinary protests but targeted attacks against state security,” he said, referencing evidence presented by the Defence Ministry, including photographs of the destruction.

The Defence Ministry argued that military courts focus on cases involving violence against sensitive and restricted areas.

However, Justice Rizvi questioned whether the civilians involved were granted their full constitutional rights, including access to appeal mechanisms.

Justice Ayesha Malik expressed reservations about specific provisions of the Army Act, such as Sections 2(1)(d)(1) and 2(1)(d)(2), arguing they may conflict with fair trial principles.

She questioned whether adequate notice and representation were provided to civilians tried under these sections.

Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar raised additional questions about the dual jurisdiction of military and civilian courts.

He inquired whether offences involving both military personnel and civilians are tried separately and whether the evidence provided distinguishes between criminal intent and political dissent.

Khawaja Haris reiterated that the May 9 incidents were not mere acts of protest but deliberate attempts to undermine state security.

“Political activity has its limits. When state property is attacked, it is no longer politics but a criminal offence,” he argued.

The Defence Ministry also presented video evidence of armed civilians attacking military sites.

Justice Hasan Rizvi asked whether the evidence showed any casualties or injuries to military personnel, to which Haris responded affirmatively, stating that armed attacks led to injuries and damage.

The bench appeared divided over the broader implications of military trials. Justice Mandokhail questioned why similar attacks on institutions like Parliament were not tried in military courts, calling for consistency in applying the law.

The hearing concluded with the court adjourning proceedings until Monday, allowing time for further deliberations.

Justice Aminuddin Khan assured that the bench would dedicate a full day to the case, with Khawaja Haris requesting an additional day for preparation.

tribune.com.pk

No clean chit for May 9 events: Apex court deliberates trial process | The Express Tribune

The hearing, led by Justice Aminuddin Khan, aimed to address appeals challenging the military trial process.
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 

Defense pushes to merge 13 cases related to May 9th GHQ attack​


During the hearing, the prosecution recorded the statements of three additional witnesses, bringing the total number of recorded statements in the case to 12.

The defense lawyer, Faisal Malik, completed his arguments concerning Imran Khan’s bail application. The prosecution will continue its arguments regarding the bail request in the next hearing.

In another development, the defense lawyers requested that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder’s family members be allowed to attend the trial, a request that was granted.

However, the prosecution raised an objection to allowing Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan’s wife, to attend the GHQ trial. The prosecution argued that she had been convicted in a separate case and had already received a sentence.

According to the prosecution, the law does not allow a convicted person to be present in another trial.

Furthermore, the defense lawyers filed a request to merge all 13 cases related to the May 9th incident.

They argued that all the cases mention the same conspiracy and should therefore be tried under a single charge. The defense requested that all cases related to the May 9th event be consolidated into one trial.

The hearing was adjourned by Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Judge Amjad Ali Shah, who set the next hearing for January 29th.

Earlier, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had challenged the 26th Constitutional Amendment in Supreme Court, stating that it is unconstitutional, illegal, and unacceptable.

As per details, the PTI’s petition, filed through Advocate Samir Khosa, urged that the amendment be declared null and void.

The petition seeks to restrain the Judicial Commission of Pakistan from making judicial appointments until a decision is made on the petition.

The PTI stated that the amendment violates the basic structure of the Constitution, which cannot be altered by Parliament.

The party also contends that the amendment undermines the independence of the judiciary, which is a fundamental principle of the Constitution.

arynews.tv

Defense pushes to merge 13 cases related to May 9th GHQ attack

RAWALPINDI: The hearing of the May 9th GHQ attack case continued today at Adiala Jail, with the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan,
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Constitutional Bench seeks more details from PTI on May 9 events

The Constitutional Bench (CB) of the Supreme Court on Friday asked the PTI leadership to submit additional documents in support of their contentions pleas to form a judicial commission to probe the events of May 9, 2023, and the alleged victimisation of its workers.

Headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan, the five-judge bench had taken up two separate petitions filed by PTI founder Imran Khan through Hamid Khan.

The other petition, moved by PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja, was for a judicial commission to assess “interference in the functioning of State authorities”.

At the outset of the hearing on Friday, Mr Hamid argued that his party had sought a judicial commission consisting of the chief justice and two senior judges to ascertain events of May 9.

Party asked to submit documents; judge questions absence of death certificates of dozens said to be ‘killed during violence’

Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail reminded Mr Khan that his petition cited the alleged killing of dozens of civilians during the May 9 incidents, but not a single death certificate has been attached.

“You should at least show a single death certificate of a citizen or at least a press report about the killing,” Justice Mandokhail observed.

Justice Khan, who was heading the bench, wondered if any FIR was ever filed over these alleged deaths.

The case was postponed when the counsel requested time to submit relevant documents.

In its petition, the PTI founder regretted the arrests and detentions of PTI supporters and workers under the Maintenance of Public Order.

These detentions were made without disclosing legal grounds for them, which was “unconstitutional”.

Mr Khan said the detained PTI leaders and workers should be released immediately as their arrests and detentions were “illegal, malafide without jurisdiction” and “against the Constitution”.

‘Raise voice in parliament’

While hearing the petitions filed by Mr Raja, Justice Mandokhail sought clarity over how the PTI leadership was being targeted, as claimed in his petition.

The counsel contended that the PTI founder had written an open letter to the chief justice of Pakistan highlighting several cases against the party leadership.

He contended that he wanted to assist the court in determining why it was necessary to form the judicial commission on the entire situation and cited the abduction of PTI leader Intezar Panjutha “by security forces”.

At this, Justice Musarrat Hilali asked if Mr Panjutha ever recorded his statement before the police.

The counsel replied that Mr Panjutha was reportedly warned not to meet anyone. “He could neither sleep nor talk with anyone”, Mr Raja said about the PTI leader.

Justice Mandokhail observed that the court can rescue someone but cannot stop such incidents from happening. He also said parliament was the forum where PTI members sit.

“Go to the parliament and raise your voice there,” Justice Mandokhail observed.

The counsel claimed that the parliament “cannot do anything about it”.

Justice Mandokhail replied that the “parliament can do a lot of things” since it was the real forum to raise these issues.

The counsel cited the example of India, where the Supreme Court interfered when the government itself was involved in the Gujarat riots. “When the state is criminal, then the court can use its authority,” the counsel said.

The petition urged the court to look into the “relentless and pervasive” violations of the fundamental rights of citizens by the authorities “in collusion with unknown persons”.

The petitions challenged the “systematic targeting and harassment of political figures, human rights activists, and their supporters by the state through arbitrary arrests, fabricated charges, prolonged detentions and intimidation tactics”.

DAWN NEWS
 
Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Yasmin Rashid others re-indicted in May 9 cases

ATC Admin Judge Manzar Ali Gul conducted the hearing of the three cases related to vandalism near Jinnah House on May 9.

The amendments in the earlier indictment of the PTI leaders were made at the request of the prosecution team. In today’s hearing, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Yasmin Rashid, Sanam Javed, Khadija Shah and others.

The PTI leaders refused to accept the charges levelled against them, prompting the court to summon witnesses in the cases on March 6.

Former foreign minister, currently behind bars at Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail, faces additional charges in eight new cases related to the May 9 violence.

These charges come on top of existing ones, and are linked to the violent clashes that swept across the country following the arrest of deposed Prime Minister Imran Khan in the £190 million settlement case.

Notably, a special court had previously sentenced Qureshi to 10 years in prison in the cipher case under the Official Secrets Act, but the Islamabad High Court (IHC) overturned this conviction in June.

The May 9 riots resulted in the arrest of hundreds of PTI workers and senior leaders for their alleged roles in violence and attacks on military installations.

arynews.tv

Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Yasmin Rashid others re-indicted in May 9 cases

LAHORE: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Monday re-indicted PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Yasmin Rashid and others in May 9 cases, ARY News
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
These corrupt government and army generals are still using this false flag to persecute political opponents. When a date is used to define an event, its usually a smoking gun to show an agenda.

Pakistan is the on the verge on bankruptcy, when this happens, the masses will be angry, Sharifs and Bhuttos will then run off to their properties in London and Dubai. Its only a matter of time now.
 
May 9 riots: SC orders ATCs to decide cases within 4 months

The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered anti-terrorism courts (ATC) hearing cases of suspects allegedly involved in last year’s May 9 riots to decide on them within four months.

ATCs across the country have been hearing cases over the alleged role of civilians in attacks on army installations during the riots that followed ex-premier Imran Khan’s arrest on May 9, 2023. Some courts have issued their judgments, while verdicts against various individuals and PTI leaders are still pending, with some being granted bail.

A three-member bench — led by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi and including Justices Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui and Shakeel Ahmad — today resumed hearing a set of 20 petitions filed by the Punjab government seeking cancellation of suspects’ bails.

The bench also ordered the ATCs to submit a progress report to the chief justices of their respective high courts every 15 days.

Zulfiqar Naqvi appeared as the state counsel on behalf of the Punjab government.

Sumair Khosa was present as the lawyer for fashion designer Khadija Shah, who is out on bail in one case and had been acquitted in another. Faisal Chaudhry also appeared as a suspect’s counsel.

Among the bail cancellation pleas was also one pertaining to a case against PTI’s Punjab chief organiser Aliya Hamza Malik, according to a cause list.

The judges had also taken up the case yesterday, where the Punjab government’s counsel was given more time to reconsider the pleas.

This hearing comes amid another case being heard by the SC’s Constitutional Bench that pertains to the military trials and the subsequent sentencing of civilians for their role in attacks on army installations during the May 9 riots.

Hearing

At the outset of the hearing, the Punjab government’s lawyer told the court that the trials would be completed within three months.

However, CJP Afridi said that the courts would instead be given four months to wrap up the cases.

At this, Khadija’s lawyer said: “How will the trial be completed in four months? There are numerous cases against my client.”

Chaudhry also raised concerns over the time period, stating, “There are 35 cases against us. The trials won’t be completed in such a short time.”

Responding to Justice Afridi inquiring him about which suspect he was representing, Chaudhry replied that he was the lawyer for former PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry, who he said was a co-suspect in a case.

Noting that a case related to Fawad was not listed for hearing today, the CJP stated: “We will not hear you as your case is not fixed for hearing.” Chaudhry then requested the court to also fix his client’s case for hearing.

At one point during the hearing, the top judge recalled that he was the chief justice of the Peshawar High Court when the case of university student Mashal Khan’s lynching was decided “within three months”.

Here, Khosa requested the bench that Khadija’s fundamental rights be protected, to which CJP Afridi replied: “Have trust in the ATCs. Let the cases proceed.”

The bench observed that the lawyer was fearing that his client’s right will be affected “based on a certain impression”.

During the hearing, the chief justice noted the court was informed that the ATCs and high courts “did not review the evidence properly”. At this, Additional Prosecutor General Wajid Gillani stated that testimonies of 28 witnesses had been recorded so far.

Subsequently, the bench ruled that the ATCs should reserve the verdicts within four months and present a progress report to chief justices every 15 days.

The court highlighted that it was clearly written in the law that ATCs should hold trial hearings on a daily basis. It further ordered: “The suspects’ rights should not be affected due to other cases before the trial court.”

DAWN NEWS
 
ATC to hear 700 accused in May 9 trials today

Hearings for 13 cases related to the May 9 violence — including attacks on GHQ Gate No 4, the Army Museum, a sensitive agency building in Saddar, and the Metro Bus Station — are scheduled today at the Special Anti-Terrorism Court at the District Kachehri.

Notably, these hearings will not be conducted inside the jail premises, and Shah Mehmood Qureshi has not been summoned from Lahore to Rawalpindi for these proceedings.

Judge Amjad Ali Shah will preside over the court.


tribune.com.pk

ATC to hear 700 accused in May 9 trials today | The Express Tribune

ATC to hear 700 accused in May 9 trials today
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
So after 2 years, no trials have started and no bail has been given. In one of the most pathetic decisions ever given by the SC, Injustice Afridii sent the decision back to the lower courts. The beghairat "forgot" that these lower courts refused to make decisions and this is the reason they came back to him.
 
May 9: Lahore ATCs to hear cases 4 days a week to speed up process

The anti-terrorism courts (ATCs) in Lahore have stepped up the hearing of cases related to the May 9, 2023, riots after directives from the Supreme Court to wind them up within four months.

The cases pertain to the arrest of workers belonging to the PTI for their alleged role in attacks on army installations during the riots that followed ex-premier Imran Khan’s arrest on May 9, 2023.

The Lahore High Court registrar issued the new amended schedule of the trials of the May 9 cases being conducted at Kot Lakhpat Jail.

The hearing of May 9 riot cases will now be heard in jail four days a week — Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The jail trials were earlier being held three days a week but have been extended to speed up their disposal.

The ATCs are hearing the jail trials of 14 cases including the Jinnah House attack.

In December 2024, the Pakistan Army announced that the remainng 60 PTI activists have been convicted by the Field General Court Martial (FGCM) for their involvement in the May 9 violent protests.

“The Field General Court Martial has promulgated the punishments to the following remaining 60 culprits after examining all evidence, ensuring the provision of all legal rights to the convicts, completion of due process and the appropriate legal proceedings,” the Inter-Services Public Relations, the military’s media wing, said in a statement.

Those sentenced include Hassaan Khan Niazi, a nephew of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, and two retired armed forces officers. Days earlier, 25 others were sentenced on the same charges.

The accused were sentenced to between two and 10 years of “rigorous imprisonment”, marking the conclusion of trials for those held in military custody over the attacks on army installations. Overall, 16 individuals were sentenced to 10 years, 11 for nine years, two for eight years, six for seven years, 10 for six years, two for five years, 13 for four years, three for three years, and 22 for two years.

DAWN NEWS
 

Imran Khan's bail pleas rejected in eight May 9 cases​


The Lahore High Court (LHC) dismissed on Tuesday the bail petitions of former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in eight separate cases related to the May 9 riots, including the attack on Jinnah House in Lahore.

A two-member LHC bench, headed by Justice Shahbaz Ali Rizvi, pronounced the reserved verdict after lawyers from the petitioner and the government sides concluded their arguments.

Imran Khan had filed bail applications in connection with multiple cases registered against him following the violent protests that erupted across the country on May 9, 2023, after his arrest.

Previously, on November 27, 2024, the ATC had dismissed Imran's bail pleas in these eight cases.

May 9 mayhem

The May 9, 2023 events refer to the violent protests broke out in several parts of the country following the arrest of the PTI founder and saw attacks on public properties including military installations including Corps Commander House Lahore also known as Jinnah House.

The riots were triggered by the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan from the premises of Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a graft case. During the protests, the miscreants targeted the civil and military installations including — corps commander house in Lahore and the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi.

Several PTI leaders and workers were released on bail after their arrests, while many still remain behind the bars.

The deposed prime minister, who was ousted from power via the opposition's no-confidence motion in April 2022, has been facing a slew of charges ranging from corruption to terrorism since his removal as premier.

Imran Khan has been behind bars since August 2023 after he was sentenced in multiple cases ahead of the February 8 elections.

Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1324446-imran-khans-bail-pleas-rejected-in-eight-may-9-cases
 
IHC acquits four PTI members in May 9 riots case over lack of evidence

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday acquitted four PTI members, who were previously convicted for attacking Islamabad’s Ramna police station during the May 9 riots.

The acquitted individuals – Mira Khan, Muhammad Akram, Shahzeb, and Sohail Khan – had been handed multiple sentences by an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in May this year.

The riots erupted on May 9, 2023 following the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan, leading to violent protests across the country.

The ATC had convicted several PTI supporters under numerous sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997, imposing sentences ranging from a few months to 10 years.

The charges included rioting, arson, attempted murder, mischief, and obstructing public servants.

However, a two-member IHC bench comprising Justice Azam Khan and Justice Khadim Soomro ruled that the prosecution failed to establish the presence of the four accused at the crime scene.


dunyanews.tv

IHC acquits four PTI members in May 9 riots case over lack of evidence

The charges included rioting, arson, attempted murder, mischief, and obstructing public servants
dunyanews.tv dunyanews.tv
 
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