The Islamabad High Court has granted a one-day protective bail to lawyer and activist Imaan Mazari and her husband, Advocate Hadi Ali Chattha. The relief came in the ongoing Controversial tweets case linked to social media posts.
The court also ordered authorities not to arrest the couple during this period. Justice Muhammad Azam Khan heard the petition on Monday. The couple had requested protection after earlier bail cancellations.
Their lawyer, Kamran Murtaza, addressed the court during the hearing. He said the bail had been cancelled twice before. He also said arrest orders had already been issued.
He told the court that Imaan Mazari was unwell. He added that she needed protection due to her health condition. The judge considered the request and granted a one-day protective bail.
The Controversial tweets case is registered by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency. The case falls under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016. Sections 9, 10, 11, and 26 apply to the charges.
The first information report claims that the couple tried to create divisions. The FIR says the posts aimed to stir tension on linguistic grounds. The posts were shared on social media platforms.
The agency indicted both accused-on October 30. Since then, the case has seen several legal developments. Court hearings continued in both district and high courts.
Last month, the couple filed a separate application in the Islamabad High Court. They asked for the transfer of the Controversial tweets case to another judge. They said they had lost trust in the current trial court.
The petition said trial transparency was not ensured. The couple claimed they could not receive fair treatment. They asked for the case to be moved to another court.
Earlier, Additional Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka cancelled their bail. He also ordered their arrest. The judge directed police to produce them before the court on January 15.
The same court later ended their right to cross-examination. The decision came after both accused failed to appear in court. The judge said the court would not allow further delays.
On Monday, Judge Majoka held another hearing in the case. He ordered the couple to appear within one hour after their IHC appearance. He warned that no further concession would be given.
“You have taken an undue advantage,” the judge said. He added that the court would now record their statements. The process will follow Section 342 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
The judge said the accused must cooperate with the court. He stressed that the law must take its proper course. The next hearing is expected soon.
The Islamabad High Court’s order gives short-term relief to the couple. The protection only applies for one day. After that, they must appear before the trial court.
Legal experts say the case may face more hearings. Both sides are preparing further arguments. The outcome remains uncertain at this stage.
The government has not issued any new statements on the matter. The investigation continues under cybercrime laws. Officials say the legal process will proceed according to the law.
For background on the trial, read our news on Court Indicts Imaan Mazari And Hadi Ali Over Controversial Tweet Case.
The Controversial tweets case has drawn public attention. Many are watching the court proceedings closely. The final decision may shape future cyber cases.
