Imran Khan's sisters granted one-day extension in interim bail

An anti-terrorism court in Lahore on Friday extended interim bail by one day for Aleema Khanum and Uzma Khanum, sisters of the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in a case relating to the October 5 protest and alleged violence against police.

According to 24NewsHD TV, the hearing was conducted by Judge Manzar Ali Gill of the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC), where both accused failed to appear despite repeated summons.

The court expressed concern over their continued absence and warned that interim bail would be revoked if they did not appear at the next hearing.

Aleema Khanum was specifically directed to ensure her appearance at the next proceeding.

The court noted her persistent non-attendance and cautioned that failure to comply would result in dismissal of her interim bail plea.

According to her counsel, she was unable to appear as she was not in Islamabad.

During the hearing, defence lawyers filed an application seeking an exemption from personal appearance for one hearing.

However, the court remarked that repeated non-appearances could not be tolerated. “If they fail to appear tomorrow, their interim bail will be cancelled,” the judge observed.

Uzma Khanum was presented before the court after her lawyers reportedly ensured her appearance amid concerns that her bail might be withdrawn due to her absence.

Separately, in cases related to the May 9 incidents being heard in ATC Court No. 3, their interim bail has been extended until April 3.

Aleema Khanum and Uzma Khanum have sought interim bail to avoid arrest in connection with the October 5 protest case, in which they are accused of inciting party workers to violence and involvement in alleged assaults on police personnel.

The case has been registered at Shafiqabad Police Station under anti-terrorism and other relevant charges.

Reporter: Jamal Ud Din Jamali