Imran Khan's Supporters Protest Outside UN Office in Geneva

A significant number of supporters of Pakistan's former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, gathered outside the UN office in Geneva on Monday to highlight human rights violations in Pakistan.

Protesters, waving flags of Pakistan and Imran Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), gathered in front of the Broken Chair monument across the street from the Palace of Nations, which houses the United Nations Office.

Approximately 100 protesters from European countries such as France, the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany were estimated to be among the participants.

The protesters chanted slogans like "Imran Tum Aage Badho Hum Tumhare Saath hai" (Imran, you go ahead, we are with you) and "Hume Chahiye Azadi" (We want freedom).

They also demanded the release of Imran Riaz Khan, a Pakistani journalist and YouTuber who was arrested by the police on May 11 at Sialkot International Airport. Since then, his whereabouts have remained unknown.

Imran Khan's supporters residing in different parts of the world have been organizing protests amid the escalating political conflict between Pakistan's Prime Minister, Shahbaz Sharif, and PTI Chief, Imran Khan.

On May 9, Pakistan experienced violent protests following Khan's arrest in a corruption case by paramilitary Rangers from the premises of the Islamabad High Court. Thousands of PTI supporters have been arrested by the police, and many are now facing trial in military courts.

Pakistan's Interior Minister and Defence Minister have suggested that Imran Khan might also face trial in a military court for his alleged involvement in the May 9 incident, during which his supporters attacked military and state installations. (MILAP NEWS NETWORK)

LHC Grants Imran Khan Bail till June 21 in Toshakhana Gifts Fraud Case

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has granted protective bail to Imran Khan, the chief of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), until June 21 in a case related to fraud and forgery in the sale of Toshakhana gifts.

Justice Amjad Rafique issued the order in response to a petition filed by the former prime minister, seeking temporary protective bail.

Toshakhana is a department responsible for storing precious gifts given to Pakistani public officials and is under the administration of the Cabinet Division.

Imran Khan has faced several legal challenges regarding his retention of these gifts. The issue had previously led to his disqualification by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). Last month, he was formally charged in this case.

The First Information Report (FIR) filed against Imran Khan on June 6, a copy of which has been obtained by Dawn.com, also includes the names of his wife, Bushra Bibi, former accountability czar Shahzad Akbar, and PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari, among others.

The FIR alleges that the accused individuals "committed fraud and forgery in order to deceive" by presenting a fake receipt on the business letterhead, containing false signatures, indicating the purchase and sale of gifts such as watches and cufflinks from Toshakhana.

The complaint, registered at Kohsar police station in Islamabad, invokes sections 420, 467, 468, and 471 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which pertains to cheating, forgery, and using forged documents.

Earlier today, Imran Khan filed a petition in the LHC, claiming that he was falsely implicated in the case with malicious intent.

During the hearing, Imran's lawyer, Salman Safdar, argued that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had already initiated proceedings against the former prime minister in the Toshakhana case.

The court accepted the request and granted protective bail to Imran Khan until June 21, allowing him to approach a relevant court in Islamabad.

In a separate development, the LHC has barred the police from arresting Imran's wife, Bushra Bibi, in any case until June 13. The court has also summoned a report detailing all the cases registered against her.

The court took this step following a petition filed by Bushra Bibi seeking information about the cases against her. The court had previously asked the Punjab police to submit a report on the matter.

During the hearing, it was revealed that a complaint had been filed against Bushra Bibi at Kohsar police station, despite the police's report stating that no new cases had been registered against her. The court expressed its dissatisfaction with the miscommunication.

The FIA, Punjab police, and Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) also submitted their reports in court. The government's counsel stated that, apart from the Al-Qadir Trust case, no other FIRs had been registered against Bushra Bibi.

Imran Khan's Supporters Rally Outside UN Office in Geneva, Demand Human Rights and Release of Detained Journalist

Introduction:

A significant gathering of protesters, supportive of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, assembled outside the United Nations (UN) office in Geneva. The demonstration aimed to draw attention to human rights violations in Pakistan and called for the release of Imran Riaz Khan, a journalist and YouTuber who has been missing since his apprehension by the police. The protesters, holding flags of Pakistan and Imran Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), voiced their support for the former PM and demanded justice and freedom.

Supporters Unite in Geneva:

Scores of protesters, including individuals from various European countries like France, the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, gathered in front of the Broken Chair monument, adjacent to the Palace of Nations where the UN Office is situated. The demonstration drew attention to the ongoing human rights concerns within Pakistan. The protesters passionately chanted slogans in support of Imran Khan, expressing their solidarity and urging him to forge ahead in his endeavors. Their demands included the release of Imran Riaz Khan, a journalist who disappeared after his arrest at Sialkot International Airport.

Seeking Justice and Freedom:

The protesters emphasized the importance of justice and freedom, expressing their desire for a more inclusive and accountable society. The rally served as a platform to highlight the issues faced by journalists and activists in Pakistan. The demand for the release and disclosure of Imran Riaz Khan's whereabouts echoed throughout the demonstration, urging authorities to provide answers and ensure his well-being.

Context of Imran Khan's Arrest:

Imran Khan, the former prime minister, was taken into custody by Pakistani law enforcement officials in connection with a corruption case. This arrest sparked violent protests across the country, with passionate supporters expressing their displeasure with the situation.

Conclusion:

The gathering of Imran Khan's supporters outside the UN office in Geneva served as a powerful demonstration against human rights violations and the alleged disappearance of Imran Riaz Khan. The protest aimed to raise awareness about the need for justice, freedom, and accountability within Pakistan. By highlighting these concerns on an international platform, the demonstrators sought to exert pressure on authorities to address the situation and ensure the rights and safety of journalists and activists.

Son of Slain SC Lawyer Alleges Involvement of Imran Khan in Father's Murder

Introduction:

The tragic killing of senior Supreme Court lawyer Advocate Abdul Razzaq Shar in a drive-by shooting has taken a new turn as his son has registered a case against PTI chief Imran Khan. The son alleges that his father was targeted at the behest of Imran Khan, claiming a connection to a treason case. This incident has led to a blame game between the government and the PTI, with both sides accusing each other of involvement. Let's delve into the details of this case, the accusations, and the legal proceedings.

The Murder of Advocate Abdul Razzaq Shar:

Advocate Shar was fatally shot near Alamo Chowk on Airport Road while on his way to the Balochistan High Court. Unidentified assailants, armed with automatic weapons, targeted his vehicle, leaving him with multiple bullet injuries. The lawyer tragically succumbed to his wounds at the scene. In response to his untimely demise, lawyers' bodies across the province have boycotted court proceedings and declared three days of mourning.

Accusations and Counter-Accusations:

Following the incident, both the government and the PTI exchanged blame regarding the motive behind the murder. Prime Minister's aide Attaullah Tarar alleged that Imran Khan orchestrated the killing to evade accountability in a treason case. On the other hand, PTI spokesperson Raoof Hassan accused Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah of being involved in the murder. The tensions escalated due to a constitutional petition filed by Shar against Imran Khan, seeking legal action under Article 6 for high treason.

The Case Registration and Allegations:

The son of the deceased, Advocate Siraj Ahmed, registered an FIR at Quetta's Shaheed Jamil police station. The FIR accuses Imran Khan and others from the PTI of intentional murder and abetment, citing sections of the Pakistan Penal Code and the Anti-Terrorism Act. Ahmed firmly believes that his father's murder was connected to the case he filed against the PTI chief. He claims that his father had received threats regarding the case and alleges the involvement of Imran Khan.

Lawyers' Boycott and Demands for Justice:

Lawyers in Balochistan have extended their boycott of court proceedings as a mark of protest. The boycott will continue for three days, and lawyers demand a transparent investigation into Shar's killing. They vow to persevere until the culprits are apprehended and justice is served. The Balochistan High Court Bar Association has condemned the government's hasty accusations against Imran Khan, calling for restraint and immediate filing of the murder FIR.

Conclusion:

The registration of a case against Imran Khan in connection with the murder of Advocate Abdul Razzaq Shar has brought this tragic incident into the spotlight. The allegations and counter-accusations between the government and the PTI add complexity to the case. As lawyers demand justice and a thorough investigation, the outcome of this investigation will determine the course of justice and shed light on the truth behind the unfortunate demise of Advocate Shar.

Imran Khan Granted Bail in Toshakhana Gifts Case Unraveling the Controversy

Introduction:

Former prime minister Imran Khan, along with his wife Bushra Bibi and close aides, recently secured bail in a case involving allegations of fraud and forgery related to Toshakhana gifts. This incident has attracted attention due to the misuse of fake receipts and forged signatures. In this article, we delve into the background of the Toshakhana, the accusations against Imran Khan, the legal proceedings, and the implications of this case.

The Toshakhana: A Treasury of Precious Gifts:

Established in 1974, the Toshakhana serves as a repository for valuable gifts presented to rulers, parliamentarians, bureaucrats, and officials by foreign dignitaries and heads of other governments. It falls under the administrative control of the Cabinet Division and holds significant historical and cultural significance.

Allegations against Imran Khan:

A local watch dealer lodged a complaint, resulting in a case being registered at the Kohsar Police Station. The plaintiff accused Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi, and their associates of presenting counterfeit receipts for the purchase and sale of Toshakhana gifts. Furthermore, the plaintiff claimed that his shop's name, company letterhead, and stamp were being unlawfully used without consent for political and media purposes.

The Controversy Unveiled:

In the wake of the ruling coalition's reference, allegations surfaced that Imran Khan had not disclosed details of the gifts he retained from the Toshakhana or the proceeds from their reported sales. Consequently, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disqualified him under Article 63(1)(p) based on a false affidavit and involvement in corrupt practices. The ECP emphasized that Imran Khan intentionally violated the provisions of the Elections Act, of 2017, and ordered criminal proceedings against him.

Legal Proceedings and Recent Developments:

Last month, Imran Khan was indicted in the Toshakhana case, following his arrest in the Al-Qadir Trust case. However, the proceedings were adjourned after his counsel produced stay orders from the Islamabad High Court against the indictment. The case is now set to resume on June 8, raising anticipation about its outcome.

Conclusion:

The Toshakhana gifts case has become a significant matter of public interest, highlighting alleged fraudulent activities related to valuable gifts entrusted to public figures. As the legal proceedings continue, the spotlight remains on the outcomes and implications for Imran Khan's political career. The controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, integrity, and adherence to legal procedures for all individuals in positions of power.

The Growing Plague of Harassment: Women Journalists Under Attack

In a disturbing trend, women journalists in Pakistan are becoming frequent targets of harassment, posing a significant threat to freedom of expression. Shockingly, the government has yet to establish a comprehensive framework to protect these brave professionals from such vicious attacks. What fuels the online trolling of women journalists in Pakistan? Well, one major factor is the unfortunate encouragement from political parties and their top leadership. Take the example of the former Prime Minister and Chairman of PTI, Imran Khan. When confronted by a delegation of journalists about the harassment faced by women journalists at the hands of his workers on social media and in meetings, his response was not only offensive but also shockingly dismissive. He remarked that if a female journalist enters a crowd, she should expect teasing, and if she ventures into a group of men, the situation becomes "Abel kill me." Such callousness from a leader is not only disheartening but deeply concerning.

While incidents of trolling and harassment of women journalists exist worldwide, Pakistan seems to have a higher prevalence. Afzal Butt, the President of PFUJ, highlights the severity of the situation in Pakistan, noting that women journalists here face far greater threats than their counterparts in other countries. After enduring online attacks and relentless trolling, women journalists fear for their personal safety, worrying about the possibility of sexual assault. These distressing circumstances not only impede their professional work but also disrupt their peace of mind and personal lives. Tragically, many women journalists have left the field of journalism due to such harrowing incidents. It is imperative that the government takes immediate and decisive steps to address this alarming issue.

Pakistan's women journalists report that they face a barrage of trolling and harassment on social media, often as part of organized campaigns orchestrated by political parties. Maira Imran, Vice President of the National Press Club in Islamabad, asserts that this is a deliberate strategy to hinder their professional duties. The relentless trolling of women journalists on social media, spearheaded by the supporters of political parties, has created an incredibly hostile environment for them.

Fauzia Kulsoom Rana, leader of the Women Journalists Association, reveals that these attacks go beyond professional criticism. Detractors bring their personal lives into the discussion, falsely accusing them of anti-government sentiments. Women journalists are subjected to threats, accusations of anti-nationalism, and even corruption allegations. Rana highlights that over the past 18 months, more than a dozen complaints of online trolling have been lodged with the FIA (Federal Investigation Agency), but unfortunately, no meaningful action has been taken beyond blocking the offending accounts. These cases involve women journalists who have no allegiance to any particular political party. It is disheartening to witness women journalists being targeted not only for their work but also as women, facing the constant threat of sexual and physical attacks that put their lives in jeopardy.

Renowned journalist and anchor Ghareeda Farooqui shares her personal experience of being trolled, with political figures fabricating scandals to tarnish her reputation. When she filed a complaint with the FIA, officials urged her to withdraw it, claiming it would be futile and detrimental to her image. While some hearings were held, the investigation into the matter ultimately came to a standstill.

Abid Ali Abbasi, President of the Rawalpindi Islamabad Union of Journalists, laments the fact that women are considered easy targets in our society. Supporters of the ruling party, fueled by their allegiance, relentlessly target women journalists who dare to speak the truth. It is high time that harassment of journalists on social media is recognized as a serious crime, warranting swift action. Unfortunately, women journalists often choose to remain silent about the attacks they face online, as our laws do not appear adequately equipped to

SC Lawyer Abdul Razzaq Shar Assassinated in Quetta Drive-by Shooting

Prominent Supreme Court lawyer Advocate Abdul Razzaq Shar was tragically gunned down in a targeted attack on Quetta's Airport Road. The incident occurred as Shar was en route to the Balochistan High Court when unidentified assailants on motorcycles opened fire.

Eyewitnesses reported that Shar was traveling in a relative's vehicle at the time of the incident. Swift action was taken to rush him to Quetta Civil Hospital, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries during transit. According to Police Surgeon Ayesha Faiz, Shar sustained a staggering 16 bullet wounds, proving to be fatal.

Authorities have cordoned off the crime scene and launched a thorough investigation to apprehend the suspects responsible for this heinous act. The Quetta Bar Association President, Abid Kakar, has strongly condemned the shooting and announced a complete boycott of the Balochistan High Court and lower courts, observing a three-day mourning period in honor of Shar's untimely demise.

Senior lawyer Mir Ataullah Lango revealed that Advocate Shar had recently filed a petition highlighting the threats to his life. Regrettably, despite his pleas for protection, he was unable to receive adequate security measures from the government. Lango emphasized that senior lawyers often face inherent risks, as it is challenging to anticipate the source of danger when dealing with a variety of cases.

In a surprising turn of events, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Ataullah Tarar, squarely blamed PTI Chairman Imran Khan for the murder of Advocate Shar. Tarar asserted that the targeted killing was directly linked to an ongoing treason case against Imran Khan, which was approaching its conclusion in the upcoming hearings.

A division bench of the Balochistan High Court had taken up the case, focusing on Article 6 of the Constitution, following a petition stating that Imran had violated the Constitution by advising the president to dissolve the National Assembly. SAPM Tarar alleged that Imran orchestrated the lawyer's assassination to safeguard himself from the treason case.

Dubbing the incident the "murder of the law," Tarar vowed to launch a comprehensive investigation into the matter, stressing that Imran Khan would be implicated in the murder case. He cautioned Imran that he would have to attend every hearing and potentially face arrest if ordered by the court.

On the other hand, the PTI categorically rejected Tarar's allegations, dismissing them as baseless and futile. The party demanded that a case be registered against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah, holding them responsible for the shooting. Furthermore, the PTI called upon the Supreme Court to take immediate notice of the incident and dismiss the false accusations leveled against their former premier.

We express our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Advocate Abdul Razzaq Shar. His tragic demise serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by legal professionals in their pursuit of justice. May his soul rest in peace.