The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday released its detailed written verdict rejecting the bail applications of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder in eight cases connected to the May 9 unrest. The court dismissed the argument that the PTI founder’s detention on May 9 absolved him of responsibility.
Referring to police statements, the court noted that the alleged planning for the May 9 incidents had been completed on May 4, reportedly under the direct guidance of the PTI founder.
The judgment highlighted that the PTI founder’s position set him apart from other co-accused, as his words and directives reportedly led to damage to state assets. It further observed that criminal force was employed to intimidate state institutions and the government.
The prosecution, according to the verdict, submitted audio and video evidence, alongside transcripts, indicating the PTI founder’s active role in plotting and inciting violence. The court stated that his provocative speeches and language played a direct role in encouraging attacks on state institutions.
Concluding its decision, the court found that the evidence on record clearly established the PTI founder’s involvement in instigating the events of May 9, which justified denying his bail petitions.
