An Islamabad anti-terrorism court (ATC) denied the prosecution’s bid for a 10-day physical remand of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) President Parvez Elahi, opting instead to send him to Adiala jail for a 14-day judicial remand. Elahi was apprehended soon after his release from NAB custody on September 1, despite an existing Lahore High Court (LHC) order barring his arrest, reiterated on the same day. This arrest is the latest in a series since the riots on May 9, with accusations against Elahi including orchestrating a vandalism attack on the Federal Judicial Complex and facilitating the rioters with vehicles and weapons. His recent arrest came shortly after the completion of a two-day physical remand.
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Defense Statements and Bail Plea
During the court proceedings, Elahi’s legal team, spearheaded by Sardar Abdul Razzaq and Babar Awan, staunchly opposed the request for extended physical remand. They argued the charges were politically motivated, emphasizing Elahi’s recent association with PTI since April this year and distancing him from the alleged March 19 attack on law enforcers orchestrated by PTI workers.
Elahi expressed his grievances before the court by emphasizing his health issues and the lack of substantial evidence implicating him in the case. Furthermore, the counsel filed an application seeking permission for Elahi’s family to visit him in prison and provide home-cooked meals. The court has scheduled the hearing on Elahi’s bail application for September 11, issuing notices to the respondents accordingly.