An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore has granted bail to Shershah Khan, a nephew of PTI founder Imran Khan and a son of his sister Aleema Khan, in the high-profile Jinnah House burning and siege case.
The decision came after the court had reserved its verdict following detailed arguments from both the defense and the prosecution.
Bail granted by ATC judge
ATC judge Manzar Ali Gul announced the order, directing the release of Shershah. The case, registered at Sarwar Road Police Station, concerns the violent events that led to the burning and siege of Jinnah House. The judge delivered the ruling after hearing the bail plea filed by Shershah’s legal team, despite the prosecution’s strong opposition.
Defense arguments
Shershah’s lawyer argued that the suspect was not involved in the riots and that no evidence had been presented linking him to the violent incident.
Also Read: Aleema Khan's second son, Shershah, also arrested
The lawyer further highlighted that the investigation report of the suspect had not yet been submitted, making it unclear when the trial would even begin. He maintained that the charges were baseless and politically motivated.
Prosecution’s stance
The prosecution opposed the bail application, arguing that Shershah should remain in custody as investigations continue into the events surrounding the Jinnah House attack. However, the judge ruled in favour of granting bail, citing the absence of sufficient evidence at this stage.
A day ago, Shershah's brother, Shahrez Khan, had also been granted bail in the same case. Judge Gul announced the reserved verdict, granting bail to Shahrez after hearing arguments from both sides.
Also Read: May 9 case: ATC grants 8-day physical remand of Aleema's son Shahrez Khan
On Thursday, the court issued release orders for Shahrez. The order was issued after a bail bond of Rs100,000 was submitted.
Shershah was taken into custody by police over his alleged involvement in the May 9 incidents. Authorities said the arrest had been made after credible evidence surfaced against him.
Shershah’s arrest linked to May 9 violence
According to SSP (Investigation) Muhammad Naveed, Shershah was arrested in connection with the violent protests that erupted on May 9 following the arrest of the PTI founder. Police maintained that he played a role in the unrest that led to attacks on public and military properties across Lahore and other parts of the country.
Legal action under way
The senior officer confirmed that the case was being pursued strictly “according to the law” and that authorities would continue to act against individuals linked to the May 9 incidents. He emphasized that evidence had been gathered against Shershah before his detention.
A day before his detention, his elder brother, Shahrez Khan, was arrested from Zaman Park under the same allegations.
