An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore denied the bail application of PTI Punjab president Dr. Yasmin Rashid on Tuesday, linking the decision to her alleged involvement in the Shadman police station vandalism case during the riots on May 9.
These riots erupted following Imran Khan’s arrest, leading to an aggressive state response and widespread apprehensions within PTI ranks. Though Khan was temporarily released, he faced re-arrest, and intense legal proceedings continue against party workers and leaders, including Dr. Rashid.
Legal Proceedings and Charges Against PTI Members
Post the unrest, authorities amended the FIRs to incorporate severe charges, including waging war against the state and other offences under various sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). These alterations followed investigations into violent incidents targeting key locations and PML-N offices.
The investigations implicated over 900 PTI affiliates, with charge sheets submitted in the ATC. Dr. Rashid, among others, faced specific accusations of inciting violence through her speeches. Her bail plea, considered in light of these developments, was ultimately deemed untenable by the ATC, marking yet another twist in the ongoing legal battle stemming from the May 9 disorder.
