LHC Invalidates Notification for Imran Khan’s Video Link Appearance

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court has annulled the notification directing the presentation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan via video link in an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC). The court ruled that such a notification cannot be issued individually under terrorism laws, as it must first be approved by the Cabinet. The Ministry of Interior had issued the notification without Cabinet approval.

The court stated that while terrorism-related crimes are serious, the Constitution safeguards the fundamental rights of accused individuals. It emphasized that physical remand requires the accused to be present in person, and video link appearances are only allowed during trial proceedings, not during remand. The decision specifically canceled the notification issued on July 15, 2024, regarding Imran Khan’s video link presentation.

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This ruling followed the PTI leader’s challenge against the Punjab government’s notification for his video link appearance in several cases related to violent protests on May 9, 2023. The protests, sparked by Khan’s arrest, resulted in significant damage to military and civilian properties and led to widespread unrest.