The Sangjani rally case has taken a new turn after an Islamabad Anti Terrorism Court issued non bailable arrest warrants for Omar Ayub, Zartaj Gul, and Sheikh Waqas Akram following repeated non appearances in proceedings linked to the Sangjani rally. The warrants were issued as part of wider action against Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf leaders in cases connected to recent protests and are meant to compel attendance for identification and further hearings.
Sangjani Rally Case: What Happened Next
The court, presided over by Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain, converted several bailable orders into non bailable warrants after police informed the bench about failure to respond to summons. Authorities say the move follows investigations into public order violations at the Sangjani gathering earlier this month. Parties affected include senior party figures who face multiple cases across districts and whose previous bail pleas were rejected in related matters.
Key details:
- Arrest warrants were issued for Omar Ayub, Zartaj Gul, Sheikh Waqas Akram, and others named in the charge sheets.
- Warrants stem from complaints registered at local police stations after the Sangjani rally disrupted public order.
- The ATC named Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain to oversee the process and directed police to effect arrests where necessary.
Legal teams for the named leaders have said they will challenge the warrants and seek interim relief through higher courts. A lawyer for one of the accused told reporters that procedural lapses should be addressed and that his client was ready to cooperate once proper notice was provided. Meanwhile, law enforcement officials stressed that failing to appear before the court weakens the chance for negotiated hearings and compels stricter judicial measures.
The development has political implications, since the Sangjani rally case involves high profile opposition figures whose detention or absence from legislative duties can affect parliamentary activity and party strategy. For background on related court actions, see this coverage on Asad Qaiser, which explains parallel warrants and proceedings.
As proceedings move forward, the ATC has asked police to report back on attempts to arrest the suspects and to submit status updates at the next hearing. Observers say courts are under pressure to balance timely justice with procedural fairness as the legal process unfolds.
Citizens and observers will watch closely as courts balance due process with public safety during proceedings.
