Judge Abual Hasnat Muhammad Zulqarnain of Islamabad’s anti-terrorism court (ATC) has given a three-day physical remand of PTM leader Ali Wazir and human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari to the police. This decision comes in light of a case regarding sedition, intimidation, and inciting individuals based on a speech they gave at a PTM rally. Although the prosecution requested a 10-day remand, both were arrested and given a shorter duration of custody after being presented in the ATC.
Lawyer’s Defense and Emotional Reunions
As they arrived at the Islamabad Judicial Complex, emotional scenes played out. Imaan Mazari, united briefly with her mother Shireen Mazari, shared her decision to go on a hunger strike and mentioned the absence of any interrogations post her arrest. Her attorney questioned the lack of evidence against Imaan, citing that her devices were with the police, yet no concrete evidence has been produced. Emphasizing her non-involvement in any anti-national activities, the lawyer also mentioned that designating Imaan as a terrorist was an excessive step.
Post-Hearing Statements and Health Concerns
After the hearing, Shireen Mazari, Imaan’s mother and a former human rights minister, expressed concerns about her daughter’s health, stating that Imaan had fainted during her arrest and was denied medical attention. Emphasizing Imaan’s background as a human rights lawyer, she appealed to the court to recognize her daughter’s dedication to human rights and release her from custody.
