ATC extends interim bails of PTI's Zartaj, Amir

ISLAMABAD:

Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) extended the interim bails of PTI leaders Zartaj Gul and Amir Mughal and accepted the bail of Ali Bukhari in terrorism cases.

Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain heard the two cases registered at Sangjani. The lawyers of Zartaj Gul and Amir Mughal filed requests on their behalf for exemption from appearance. The court accepted the request while confirming the bail of Ali Bukhari Advocate against a Rs30,000 surety bond.

The court extended the interim bails of Zartaj Gul and Amir Mughal and ordered them to ensure their presence on October 14, the next date of hearing.

Meanwhile, District and Sessions Judge Islamabad Afzal Majoka accepted the bail before arrest of PTI leader Alia Hamza against a Rs50,000 surety bond in a case lodged under PECA ACT.

During the hearing, the court rebuked the prosecutor for making references of irrelevant sections of PECA ACT. The court remarked the Section 9 is applicable when the accused is linked with any proscribed organization.

The court inquired if any proof showing Alia Hamza interfering in the internal affairs of the state institutions is available. The prosecutor relayed the video of Alia Hamza in the court. The court remarked the case instituted against Alia Hamza comes under Section 24A, while the PECA ACT Section 24 is silent on the punishment.

The prosecutor said Alia Hamza does not doubt the veracity of the videos, adding the court can verify. After the arguments, the court accepted Alia Hamza's bail before arrest.