An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Rawalpindi has discharged Bushra Bibi, the wife of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, in 12 cases related to the May 9, 2023, riots. The hearing took place at a temporary court in Adiala Jail, led by ATC Judge Malik Ejaz Asif.
During the hearing, the Rawalpindi police requested the physical remand of Bushra Bibi, but the court rejected this plea. Bushra Bibi’s defense team, including lawyers Salman Safdar and Malik Faisal, argued against the remand.
After listening to both sides, the court decided to discharge Bushra Bibi from all 12 cases. Her lawyer, Salman Safdar, later spoke to the media, stating that the court found no credible evidence against her and dismissed the statements from co-accused individuals.
Bushra Bibi has faced several legal challenges since her arrest in February 2024. Although she has been granted bail and acquitted in several cases, including the controversial “un-Islamic nikah” case, she remains implicated in other cases related to the May 9 riots.
The May 9 protests erupted after the arrest of PTI’s leader last year, leading to widespread damage to state properties, including military installations. The military has labeled May 9 as “Black Day” and has vowed to hold the protesters accountable under the Army Act.