Imran Khan Challenges LHC Bail Rejection in May 9 Riots Cases at Supreme Court

Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has filed an appeal in the Supreme Court to contest the Lahore High Court’s (LHC) decision to deny him post-arrest bail in eight cases related to the riots that occurred on May 9, 2023. Khan asserts that the allegations against him are unfounded, pointing out that he was in custody during the riots and that there is a lack of evidence to support the claims.

Khan’s petition challenges the Lahore High Court’s dismissal of his bail in cases related to the attacks on Jinnah House, Askari Tower, and Shadman Police Station. He stated, “I was in NAB custody in Islamabad during the riots on May 9, making my involvement impossible.” The appeal emphasizes:

• Lack of Evidence: Khan claims that First Information Reports (FIRs) lack credible proof.
• Inconsistent Prosecution: He noted discrepancies in statements, suggesting a dubious case.
• Political Vendetta: Khan alleged the cases stem from political motives, violating his rights.
• Precedent: Other co-accused received bail, supporting his entitlement.

Khan criticised a five-month delay by the police, questioning their reliability. The riots on May 9, 2023, erupted following Khan’s arrest, with supporters of the PTI attacking military and government sites, including Jinnah House and the GHQ in Rawalpindi. Protests spread across Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad, leading to the deployment of armed forces. Khan faces charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act for allegedly inciting violence, which he denies.

Read: Lahore High Court Denies Imran Khan Bail in Eight May 9 Cases

LHC Bail Rejection

In July 2025, the LHC bench led by Justice Syed Shahbaz Ali Rizvi rejected Khan’s bail in eight cases, citing sufficient evidence. The decision, reported by Geo News, intensified PTI’s claims of judicial bias, with supporters on X posting: “Justice for Imran Khan!”

Khan’s appeal has the potential to establish a precedent for other PTI leaders facing charges related to the May 9 events, including Hammad Azhar, who recently surrendered. This case is intensifying political tensions, with the PTI claiming that they are being persecuted by the state.

Imran Khan’s appeal to the Supreme Court challenges the Lahore High Court’s decision to deny bail, arguing that it constitutes an act of political vendetta. The outcome of this appeal could significantly impact PTI’s ongoing legal challenges and shape the public’s perception of the party.