LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan has been ordered by the Lahore High Court not to be “harassed” by authorities.
The ruling came during a hearing for Khan’s application seeking details of cases registered against him and to prevent a police operation by the Punjab government at his Zaman Park residence in Lahore during the Eid holidays.
Khan appeared in court with other PTI leaders, and the verdict stated that he should be treated according to the law, as assured by the Punjab Government lawyer. The court added that Khan should not be illegally harassed until the next hearing.
عمران خان کمرہ عدالت میں موجود pic.twitter.com/19790U1TwU
— PTI (@PTIofficial) April 18, 2023
The day before the hearing, Khan expressed his concerns to the top provincial court about fears that the provincial government may launch a fresh “operation” during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays at his Zaman Park residence in a bid to arrest him.
Court rejects Imran Khan’s please for urgent hearing
The court has rejected Imran Khan’s request to hold an urgent hearing on the plea, and Khan’s case has been scheduled for May 2. The court stated that there was no need for an urgent hearing.
Khan has faced several legal challenges in recent years, including allegations of corruption and illegal land acquisition. He has denied all charges and claims that they are politically motivated.
The Lahore High Court’s order is seen as a victory for Khan and his party, who have accused the government of using the legal system to silence opposition voices. However, it remains to be seen whether the authorities will comply with the court’s ruling and refrain from harassing Khan.