The Islamabad High Court (IHC) granted bail to Bushra Bibi on Wednesday. She is the wife of PTI Chairman Imran Khan. The case involved an expensive Bulgari jewellery set from Toshakhana, which was obtained at a low price.
On October 4, Bushra Bibi filed a petition seeking post-arrest bail. The IHC notified the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) regarding her petition. The prosecution claimed the jewellery set, valued at Rs71.5 million, was purchased by Imran Khan and Bushra for Rs2.9 million.
Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb presided over the bail hearing. Bushra Bibi’s lawyer, Barrister Salman Safdar, and FIA prosecutor Umair Majid Malik were present. Malik presented his arguments, as Safdar had finished his remarks the day before.
During the hearing, Justice Aurangzeb mentioned Azerbaijan as an example. He noted that Azerbaijan keeps all state gifts in a museum. He also pointed out that a photo of Benazir Bhutto was displayed there, along with gifts from world leaders. Justice Aurangzeb questioned why Imran Khan was made an accused if Bushra did not submit the gifts. Malik responded that Imran held public office.
Comparison with Other Cases
Justice Aurangzeb compared the case with that of Justice Qazi Faez Isa. In Isa’s case, the husband was held accountable for his wife’s actions. However, Malik said Bushra’s case was different. He explained that state gifts must be declared and are state property until legally purchased. He emphasized that gifts cannot be retained before purchase.
Judge’s Remarks on Valuation
Justice Aurangzeb highlighted that Toshakhana gifts could only be valued correctly through an auction. He questioned how a gift’s value could be determined after it had been taken from the store. He granted Bushra Bibi bail on surety bonds worth Rs1 million. The court promised a detailed verdict later.
Separate Court Hearing
In another case, the FIA’s special court heard indictment proceedings against Imran and Bushra. The hearing was delayed once again. Judge Shahrukh Arjumand presided over the case. Due to security concerns, the hearing took place at the Judicial Complex in Islamabad instead of Adiala Jail. The court adjourned the hearing until October 26.
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