In a significant escalation against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership, an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi on Monday issued a non-bailable warrant for Aleema Khan, sister of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The order stems from her repeated failure to appear in court despite multiple summons related to violent protests in Garrison Town last November.
The courtroom drama unfolded as Aleema Khan’s lawyer, Faisal Malik, boldly declared she would not present herself until her bank accounts and identity card were unfrozen. Special Prosecutor Zahir Shah countered sharply, arguing that no accused can dictate terms to the court or obstruct proceedings. He highlighted her irresponsible conduct from the outset and urged daily trials to expedite justice.
Dismissing her plea for exemption from personal appearance, the judge also issued notices to her guarantor and postponed the hearing to February 3. The court directed Rawalpindi’s police superintendent to arrest Aleema Khan and produce her by Tuesday, while keeping her financial and identity documents frozen until compliance.
This development ties back to the chaotic November 26, 2024, rally in Islamabad, where PTI supporters defied a government ban, stormed D-Chowk, and clashed fiercely with law enforcement. Tear gas shells dispersed the crowds amid demands for Imran Khan’s release. The three-day PTI sit-in ended abruptly after intense confrontations.
Meanwhile, PTI has approached the Sindh High Court against alleged arrests of over 180 workers during raids in Karachi and Sindh under the Maintenance of Public Order ordinance. The party accuses Sindh police of dawn raids, a claim denied by provincial authorities. As political tensions simmer, this warrant underscores Pakistan’s crackdown on opposition figures ahead of potential unrest.