LHC nullifies physical remand of Imran Khan in May 9 cases

The Lahore High Court on Thursday nullified the physical remand orders of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in 12 cases related to the May 9 incidents, ruling in favour of his petitions against the remands.

During the hearing, prosecutors argued for the necessity of a polygraph test for Imran Khan, which the former premier had refused earlier.

Justice Tariq Saleem Sheikh questioned why such tests were not conducted during interim bail periods, highlighting the timing of the remand requests coinciding with Khan's anticipated release.

Imran Khan’s lawyer, Salman Safdar, argued that the defence was unaware of many of the cases, and bail was neither sought nor granted in those instances.

Justice Anwarul Haq Pannu remarked on the recurrent practice of re-arresting Khan upon receiving bail in other cases and questioned the prosecutors' delay in seeking actions on older cases.

The court criticised the timing and necessity of the physical remand, noting that Khan was already in judicial custody.

The court also pointed out that investigation officers had ample time over the past year to act on these cases.

Upon completion of arguments, the court nullified the anti-terrorism court's decision to grant physical remand.

Additionally, the court also cancelled the notification for Khan’s video link attendance.