ISLAMABAD (PEN) : An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in the federal capital cautioned that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and other suspects could be declared “absconders” if they continue to fail to appear before the court. The warning was issued by ATC Judge Tahir Abbas Supra during the hearing of two cases concerning alleged vandalism and violation of Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure at Sangjani and I-9 police stations in Islamabad.
Today’s session saw PTI leaders Faisal Javed Khan, Ali Nawaz Awan, Wasiq Qayyum, Aamer Kiani, and other suspects appearing before the court, while exemption pleas were filed by KP CM Gandapur and PTI leader Amir Mughal.
Judge Supra dismissed the argument for exemption based on absence from the city, questioning whether the responsibility for non-appearance lies with the suspects or the court. He emphasized that no requests for exemption would be entertained and announced non-bailable warrants for absentee suspects.
In response, defense lawyers acknowledged their clients’ responsibility for failing to appear and requested another chance, assuring the court of their appearance in the next hearing. Judge Supra warned that those failing to appear on July 8 would be declared “absconders,” underscoring that immediate declaration as such is permissible and stating that cases would only proceed if warranted.
Furthermore, the court requested a written reply from the Superintendent of Adiala Jail regarding the possibility of the PTI founder appearing via video link. The cases were adjourned till July 8, with the judge announcing that subsequent hearings would be held daily.