ATC issues non-bailable warrants for Aleema Khan in Nov 26 protest case

RAWALPINDI: A Rawalpindi anti-terrorism court on Monday issued non-bailable arrest warrants for Aleema Khan, the sister of incarcerated former prime minister and PTI founder Imran Khan, after she failed to appear in a case linked to the November 26 protest.

The court rejected Aleema Khan’s request for exemption from appearance, summoned her guarantors and issued notices to them. The case is registered at Sadiqabad Police Station and relates to a protest held at D-Chowk in Islamabad on November 24, 2024.

The protest followed a “final call” by Imran Khan for nationwide demonstrations demanding restoration of PTI’s electoral mandate, the release of jailed party leaders and reversal of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, which he said had empowered a “dictatorial regime”.

Supporters from across the country gathered at D-Chowk. The government ruled out negotiations and launched an operation against protesters, prompting PTI leaders to flee. The protest ended on November 26.

During Monday’s hearing, defence counsel sought a one-day exemption, saying Aleema Khan’s bank account, CNIC and passport had been blocked, creating difficulties in travel and daily affairs.

Judge Amjad Ali Shah ordered the restoration of her frozen personal bank account, blocked national identity card, and passport, warning that contempt proceedings could be initiated if the order was not implemented. The court noted that restoration orders had already been issued, but the defence said they had not been carried out. The judge warned that action would follow if compliance was not ensured.

However, after hearing arguments, the court rejected the exemption plea, issued non-bailable arrest warrants and ordered the Rawal superintendent of police to arrest Aleema Khan and produce her before the court by Tuesday. The judge ruled that her bank account and identity documents would remain blocked until she appears in court. Monitoring Desk