ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore has ruled that former Prime Minister Imran Khan cannot be legally compelled to undergo a polygraph or photogrammetric test. However, the court emphasized that his continued refusal is obstructing the progress of the ongoing investigation.
Court Issues Written Verdict on Investigation Hurdles
In a three-page written order released on Monday, the ATC responded to a prosecution request seeking polygraph and photogrammetric testing of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder. The court acknowledged that Khan was provided with full and fair opportunities to support his claims of innocence, but his persistent non-cooperation has stalled the inquiry.
According to the court, Khan declined not only to undergo the requested tests but also avoided meetings with the investigation team. Judge Manzar Ali Gill remarked that while an accused individual cannot be legally forced to take such tests, the defense’s assertion of this right does not negate the challenges it poses to investigators.
“Repeated Refusals Hindering Justice”
The court stated that Imran Khan had been offered two chances to voluntarily comply, both of which he turned down. It ruled out a third opportunity, citing “no reasonable expectation” of cooperation moving forward. The order described the refusals as attempts to delay or avoid trial proceedings.
Judge Gill noted, “The accused’s continuous rejection is impeding the investigative process,” and instructed the investigating officers to utilize alternative technical methods to continue their probe.
Investigation to Proceed Through Other Means
The verdict directs law enforcement to move ahead with available investigative tools in the absence of cooperation from the accused. While reiterating that suspects cannot be forcibly subjected to polygraph examinations, the court expressed concern about the broader implications of high-profile individuals evading standard procedures.
