An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore has extended the interim bail of National Assembly Opposition Leader Umar Ayub and former minister Asad Umar, along with others, in connection with the May 9 Shadman rioting and arson case. The hearing, presided over by Duty Judge Arshad Javed, reviewed the interim bail applications of Umar Ayub and Asad Umar. During the proceedings, requests for exemption from personal appearance were submitted on behalf of both leaders, which the court accepted. Lawyers representing the two argued that Asad Umar was unable to attend due to illness, while Umar Ayub had to appear for other court hearings in Islamabad. The court extended the interim bail of Umar Ayub and others until October 8. In a separate case, the ATC also confirmed interim bail for 96 suspects involved in May 9, violence in Kasur. Judge Arshad Javed granted the bail confirmations for those charged in cases filed at Allahabad, A-Division, and Khudian police stations in Kasur.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan