An anti-terrorism court has refused to grant the police additional physical remand of 13 women supporters of former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, including renowned fashion designer Khadija Shah. These women, associated with Khan’s Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, were implicated in a case connecting them to an attack on the historic Jinnah House. Following the expiration of their initial six-day physical remand, the women were presented before the court, which decided to send them to jail on judicial remand.
During the court proceedings, the investigating officer (IO) argued that the suspects needed to remain in custody to assist in the recovery of clubs and petrol bombs allegedly used in the May 9 attack on Jinnah House. The incident occurred at the residence of the Lahore Corps Commander. According to a report by Dawn news, the IO claimed that clubs were seized from Khadija Shah, Sanam Javed, and Tayyaba Raja.
This development marks a significant turn of events in the case, as the court has denied the police’s request for further physical remand of the accused women. The decision to send them to jail on judicial remand suggests that the court does not consider their continued custody necessary for the investigation at this stage.
The attack on Jinnah House, an iconic historical building, and the residence of the Lahore Corps Commander, had raised concerns about the security situation in the region. The incident took place on May 9, when a group of individuals reportedly stormed the premises, causing damage and chaos. The authorities swiftly initiated an investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
Amidst the ongoing investigation, the police arrested 13 women who were affiliated with Imran Khan’s PTI party. Among them was Khadija Shah, a well-known fashion designer, who gained prominence for her work both in Pakistan and internationally. The connection between these women and the attack on Jinnah House has raised eyebrows and generated public interest.
The denial of further physical remand by the anti-terrorism court indicates that the court is not convinced of the necessity of extended custody to obtain the evidence sought by the investigating officer. The decision to send the women to jail on judicial remand means that they will be held in prison until the trial proceedings commence.
It is important to note that at this stage, the allegations against these women are yet to be proven in a court of law. They are entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. The upcoming trial will provide an opportunity for the presentation of evidence and a fair evaluation of the case.
As this case unfolds, it will continue to attract attention due to the involvement of prominent PTI party members, including fashion designer Khadija Shah. The investigation into the attack on Jinnah House remains ongoing, and it is crucial for the authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial inquiry to determine the truth behind the incident. The trial proceedings will play a significant role in establishing the culpability, if any, of the accused women and bringing justice to all parties involved.
