ISLAMABAD: A district and sessions court in Islamabad on Saturday granted an interim bail to senior politician and Awami Muslim League (AML) Chairman Sheikh Rashid Ahmed in cases pertaining to allegedly inciting people to arson on May 9 after the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan in a graft case from the Islamabad High Court’s premises, reported.
The proceedings took place before Additional District and Sessions Judge Tahir Abbas Sapra as the said case against the PTI ally was lodged at Kohsar police station.
As Sheikh Rashid appeared in court, the judge inquired about his well-being, prompting a humorous response from the senior politician regarding closed banks on the weekend. This light-hearted remark, seemingly alluding to financial constraints in securing the interim bail, prompted laughter in the courtroom.
Meanwhile, Sheikh Rashid’s lawyer argued that his client’s name was added to the supplementary challan and he was not the prime accused in the May 9 incidents.
Despite being listed in the secondary challan, the police conducted raids at Sheikh Rashid’s residence, seizing vehicles, he added.
Following these arguments, the judge granted bail and restrained the police from arresting Sheikh Rashid until November 25.
Additionally, the court directed Sheikh Rashid to submit a surety bond of Rs5,000. The proceedings were adjourned until the said date, and notices were issued.
Speaking to the media outside the court, the AML leader revealed that this marked his 20th bail in cases filed at Kohsar police station, with 66 more cases pending.
He emphasised the importance of maintaining good relations with the institutions for the nation’s survival, emphasising his age of 73 and the staggering number of 86 cases. He further expressed gratitude to the judge for granting him bail at an affordable cost.
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