LHC set for final arguments in Elahi detention case

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has summoned the attorneys of both PTI President Parvez Elahi and the Punjab government for a final argument at the next hearing of a petition, filed by Elahi’s wife against her husband’s detention under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance.

At Wednesday’s hearing, the counsel for Elahi told the court that despite submission of surety bonds, Lahore Camp Jail authorities kept the former Punjab chief minister in illegal custody for two days.

The public prosecutor informed the court the jail received Elahi’s surety bonds after the office hours. He said there is a procedure for action on surety bonds under Section 124 of the jail manual.

“The authorities take action on the surety bonds received after office hours on the next day.” He said Elahi was supposed to be released on Monday but Lahore deputy commissioner (DC) issued his detention orders on Sunday,” he added.

The court later summoned the attorneys of both sides for a final argument at the next hearing.

The caretaker Punjab government on July 18 detained the former Punjab chief minister for one month as it challenged the bail granted to him by a local court.

Elahi was detained under Section 3 of the MPO.