A special Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi has deferred its verdict in a case registered against Aleema Khan and 10 other accused in connection with the November 26 protests.The verdict, which was to be announced today, will now be pronounced on October 1. The verdict was adjourned due to the absence of ATC Judge Amjad Ali ShahAccording to the prosecution, Aleema Khan was accused of planning the November 26 protest and allegedly conspiring with Imran Khan during a meeting at Adiala Jail on November 22, 2024.

During the previous hearing, the prosecution team had completed its arguments. After the completion of arguments, the court reserved its verdict in the case. Aleema Khan’s lawyer, Muhammad Faisal Malik, had objected to the proceedings, describing the hearing as one-sided.The previous hearing was conducted by Special ATC Judge Amjad Ali Shah. Special security and administrative arrangements had been made at the court during the last hearing.

The case, involving allegations related to the November 26 protest, violence and a alleged conspiracy, was registered at Sadiqabad Police Station in Rawalpindi.Cross-examination of 19 prosecution witnesses has already been completed in the case. During the proceedings, the court also heard various miscellaneous applications filed on behalf of Aleema Khan.The case relates to the November 26, 2024 protest by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), when thousands of party supporters travelled towards Islamabad despite restrictions on public gatherings.

The ensuing clashes between protesters and security forces led to violence in parts of the capital, including the Red Zone. PTI subsequently called off its planned sit-in.Earlier, Aleema Khan was detained in Lahore on Sunday after the city’s deputy commissioner ordered her detention for 30 days under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance. Police later confirmed that she was taken to Kot Lakhpat Jail.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)