An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Rawalpindi rejected the police’s request for her physical remand.
Bushra Bibi was implicated in 12 cases filed in Rawalpindi, accused of inciting riots and vandalism at sensitive locations, including the GHQ. However, the police failed to present substantial evidence against her.
ATC Judge Malik Ejaz Asif presided over the case at Adiala Jail, where he delivered the verdict clearing Bushra Bibi of the charges.
The court dismissed the investigation reports and remand request submitted by 12 police officers. Bushra Bibi was represented by her legal team, including Salman Safdar, Muhammad Faisal Malik, and Khalid Yousaf Chaudhry.
Speaking outside Adiala Jail, Barrister Salman Safdar, Bushra Bibi’s lawyer, expressed his satisfaction with the court’s decision and said that the police had named her in the May 9 cases based on statements that lacked legal merit.
He said Tuesday’s court ruling could have a bearing on the cases against the incarcerated PTI founder, who was recently acquitted in the cipher case. However, a final decision is yet to be announced.
Barrister Safdar explained that the court thoroughly reviewed the evidence and dismissed the prosecution’s claims, adding that statements from co-accused individuals hold no weight.
The prosecution had presented three statements to the court, alleging Bushra Bibi’s involvement in the May 9 incidents. “The court rightly questioned why there had been silence for over a year and three months since the events of May 9,” he said.
He also pointed out the lengthy delay in presenting evidence.
“Decisions have been made even in the dead of night, but today’s ruling is a positive development,” he added.