An Islamabad court has issued arrest warrants for three senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders—Omar Ayub, Aamir Dogar, and Aamir Mughal—for failing to appear in cases related to the violation of Section 144. The cases, registered at Islamabad’s I-9 police station, stem from allegations that the leaders defied the prohibitory order.
Court Proceedings and Exemptions
Judicial Magistrate Shahzad Khan presided over the hearing on Monday. While the court accepted exemption pleas for PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan and Shoaib Shaheen, the absence of Ayub, Dogar, and Mughal led to the issuance of their arrest warrants.
During the hearing, arguments on acquittal applications could not take place, delaying progress on the cases. The court has now adjourned the proceedings until April 23.
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Section 144 Violation and Legal Consequences
Section 144 of the Pakistan Penal Code prohibits public gatherings and demonstrations without prior approval from authorities. Authorities imposed this law in Islamabad due to security concerns and political unrest. The alleged violations by PTI leaders occurred during party protests and political activities.
Failure to comply with court summons could lead to further legal action, including forcible arrests if the accused do not appear in the next hearing.
Political Context and Legal Challenges
The legal actions against PTI leaders come amid increasing political tensions. PTI has frequently accused authorities of using legal cases to suppress the opposition. On the other hand, the government maintains that the law applies equally to all, and violations of public order must be addressed.
The next hearing on April 23 will determine whether the accused leaders present their defense or face further legal repercussions. The case adds to the ongoing legal battles PTI leaders are facing in the aftermath of political unrest
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