An Islamabad district and sessions court has taken a strict stance against two prominent political figures, cancelling their bail in a high-profile case related to social media posts. The court revoked the pre-arrest bail granted to former human rights minister Shireen Mazari and ex-state minister Farrukh Habib.
Court's Decision and Arrest Orders
The decision was handed down by Additional District and Sessions Judge Tahir Abbas Supra on Thursday. The judge not only cancelled the bail but also issued immediate non-bailable arrest warrants for both individuals. This legal action was a direct consequence of their repeated failure to appear before the court for hearings related to the case.
The case against Mazari and Habib stems from a complaint filed by a citizen named Mian Dawood. The complainant accused them of using their social media platforms, specifically Twitter (now X), to publish defamatory and false content against state institutions. The First Information Report (FIR) was registered at the city's Ramna police station under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code.
Background of the Legal Proceedings
Initially, both Shireen Mazari and Farrukh Habib had been granted pre-arrest bail, a legal provision that allowed them to avoid custody while the case proceeded. However, the court's patience wore thin as the accused consistently did not attend the scheduled hearings. Their absence was deemed a violation of the bail conditions and a disregard for the judicial process.
During the latest court session, the legal counsel representing the accused attempted to justify their clients' absence. However, the judge found the explanations unsatisfactory. The court emphasized that the law must take its course when individuals fail to comply with its orders and participate in the proceedings. The cancellation of bail signifies a significant escalation in the legal troubles for both politicians.
Implications and Next Steps
With the bail cancelled and arrest warrants issued, the police are now legally empowered and obligated to apprehend Shireen Mazari and Farrukh Habib. They will be taken into custody to ensure their presence in court for future hearings. This development highlights the judiciary's increasing seriousness in addressing cases involving alleged misuse of social media by public figures to make contentious claims.
The case has drawn considerable public and media attention, given the profile of the individuals involved and the nature of the allegations concerning statements against state institutions. The court's firm decision sends a clear message about the accountability of all citizens, regardless of their political stature, before the law. The legal proceedings will continue once the accused are presented before the judge following their arrest.
