An Islamabad court has taken a strict stance against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Ali Amin Gandapur, issuing non-bailable arrest warrants for his repeated failure to appear before the judiciary. The warrants were issued in a case concerning alleged vandalism at the city's Judicial Complex.
Court Takes Action Over Non-Appearance
Additional District and Sessions Judge Tahir Abbas Supra presided over the hearing and issued the warrants after Gandapur, who currently serves as the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, did not attend the court proceedings. The judge expressed clear frustration with the continuous absences of the accused politician.
The case stems from incidents that occurred on March 18, 2023, when supporters of PTI, including Gandapur, were accused of causing significant damage and engaging in violent activities at the Judicial Complex in Islamabad's G-11 sector. The complex was the venue for a hearing involving PTI founder Imran Khan at the time.
Details of the Case and Police Investigation
According to the First Information Report (FIR) registered at the Ramna Police Station, a large group of PTI workers and leaders allegedly stormed the complex. The complaint states that the mob broke through police barriers, damaged official property, and created a situation of chaos and terror.
The police investigation has named several individuals, with Ali Amin Gandapur being a prominent figure among the accused. The charges include serious offenses such as interfering with state affairs, intimidation, and damaging public property. The court had previously summoned Gandapur, but his consistent non-appearance led to the latest legal action.
The court has now directed the police to arrest Gandapur and present him at the next hearing, scheduled for September 27. This order underscores the judiciary's intent to proceed with the case regardless of the accused's political stature.
Legal and Political Repercussions
The issuance of non-bailable arrest warrants for a sitting chief minister is a significant development in Pakistan's political and legal landscape. It highlights the ongoing tensions between the judiciary and certain political figures, and sets a precedent for holding high-profile individuals accountable.
This legal proceeding is separate from the multitude of other cases faced by PTI leaders. It specifically addresses the events of March last year, which were widely condemned for undermining the sanctity of a judicial premises. The court's firm stance indicates that the matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness.
The next steps will be closely watched, as the police are now legally obligated to execute the warrants. Gandapur's response and legal strategy in the face of this development will be crucial in determining the course of this case.
