An Islamabad district and sessions court refrained from announcing the reserved verdict in the iddat case against former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his spouse Bushra Bibi on Wednesday. The delay comes amidst escalating tensions outside the court, where the complainant was reportedly assaulted by unidentified individuals, raising concerns about the security and impartiality of the judicial process.
The case, which revolves around allegations of marriage during Bushra Bibi’s iddat period, had seen a series of developments including the recent appeal filed by the defendants against their conviction. However, District and Sessions Judge Shahrukh Arjumand, presiding over the case, opted to seek transfer, citing the complainant’s accusations of bias and sympathy towards the PTI.
The courtroom drama unfolded with complainant Khawar Fareed Maneka, Bushra Bibi’s former husband, alleging mistreatment and attempting to present his grievances directly to the court. Amidst heated exchanges between the complainant and PTI lawyers, Judge Arjumand intervened, seeking order in the proceedings.
Maneka’s emotional outbursts and accusations against Imran Khan further fueled the tension, prompting PTI supporters to chant slogans and disrupting the decorum of the court. Despite the chaos, Judge Arjumand attempted to maintain control, urging both parties to adhere to legal protocols.
The case, which had attracted significant attention due to its implications on privacy and women’s rights, had faced criticism from various quarters. Civil society, women activists, and legal experts had condemned the verdict as a violation of fundamental rights, prompting widespread protests.
Imran Khan, on his part, vowed to challenge the convictions and raised concerns about judicial misconduct. The latest developments, including the assault on the complainant and the court’s decision to seek transfer, have further intensified the controversy surrounding the case.
While the legal proceedings continue to unfold, the delay in delivering justice underscores the complexities and challenges associated with high-profile cases. As the nation awaits a resolution, the integrity of the judicial system hangs in the balance, with the outcome likely to have far-reaching implications on the political landscape and the rule of law.