Islamabad High Court (IHC) resumed the hearing on the bail application of PTI’s founder in the Toshakhana-2 case, with Justice Mian Gul Hasan Aurangzeb presiding over the proceedings.
FIA Prosecutor Zulfiqar Abbas Naqvi and Barrister Salman Safdar, the defense lawyer, presented their arguments during the hearing.
Justice Mian Gul Hasan Aurangzeb instructed the FIA prosecutor to refrain from media commentary, stating, "Leave the media alone and exempt yourself from them." The remark came after the prosecutor claimed that media outlets had already reported that the bail would be granted.
The court also questioned details regarding the receipts involved in the case, specifically whether they were issued in the name of Bushra Bibi or the PTI founder. Barrister Salman Safdar clarified that the receipts mentioned in the challan bore Bushra Bibi’s name.
Defense arguments
The defense raised concerns over a 3.5-year delay in registering the case. The prosecution has made Sohaib Abbasi a sworn witness and Inamullah Shah a key witness without taking an oath.
Barrister Salman Safdar highlighted that multiple agencies, including NAB, FIA, Police, and the Election Commission, have initiated actions related to the Toshakhana case, suggesting procedural redundancy.
He argued that the Kohsar Police Station has also registered a case regarding a fake Toshakhana receipt.
Prosecution’s position
The FIA prosecutor, Umair Majeed Malik, maintained that the valuation of the jewelry set mentioned in the case would be explained in the prosecution’s evidence.Justice Mian Gul Hasan Aurangzeb remarked, "If the media does not spread sensationalism, how will they conduct their business?" He dismissed rumors about his health, stating that he was present and hearing the case despite such reports.
Status of Co-Accused
The court was informed that Bushra Bibi, a co-accused in the case, is currently on interim bail and awaiting a decision by Judge Afzal Majuka. Barrister Salman Safdar expressed hope that Judge Majuka would soon announce his verdict.
