Top cop faces scrutiny in Khadija Shah case

LHC dissatisfied over CCPO’s report in Khadija Shah case, next hearing slated for Oct 27

LAHORE:

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Wednesday expressed displeasure over a report of the Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) submitted to the court in relation to Khadija Shah’s case of incitement following the riots of May 9.

Justice Ali Baqar Najafi, in his order mentioned that “the report submitted by the CCPO Lahore through the learned law officer appears to be unsatisfactory, therefore, he is directed to explain his position by appearing in person on the next date of hearing”. Further, Justice Najafi fixed October 27 for the next hearing.

It is pertinent to mention that Khadija, a PTI social activist, and a well-known fashion designer had filed a plea seeking initiation of contempt proceedings against police high-ups over her arrest in a third case. The case was linked to an unknown FIR that was not revealed to the court.

However, the LHC’s division bench headed by Justice Aalia Neelum granted post-arrest bail to Khadija in the aforementioned two FIRs. As the LHC granted her bail, the police again arrested her in another FIR for allegedly abetting in the Rahat Bakery arson case.

Moreover, Justice Najafi directed the CCPO Lahore to appear before the court and answer why the petitioner was arrested in another FIR. On October 23, as the CCPO appeared, Justice Najafi asked in which cases was the petitioner nominated. The police official replied that Khadija was wanted in two FIRs.

Justice Najafi adjourned the proceedings by October 27. The court also issued an order that directed the CCPO to appear in person on the next date to explain his position on this matter.