Threatening bureaucrats: ATC acquits Rana Sanaullah
Pakistan
Decision came after complainant withdrew his statement
GUJRANWALA (Web Desk) - The Anti-Terrorism Court on Tuesday acquitted Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah in a case concerning threats made to the Punjab chief secretary, his family, and other officials.
This decision came after the complainant withdrew his statement.
The case was originally filed against the senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) politician at the Industrial Police Station in Gujranwala on August 25, 2022.
Sheikh Shekaz Aslam, a leader from the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), had then lodged a complaint citing threats from Sanaullah to top officials.
Following the court hearing, the minister addressed the media, emphasising that he and his colleagues had fearlessly appeared before the judges without hiding their faces or using any dramatic tactics.
He clarified that no party members had interrupted the court proceedings or obstructed the judges.
Sanaullah stressed that they had approached the law as common people without resorting to theatrics.
Previously, in February, the ATC had issued an arrest warrant for Sanaullah, which required him to present himself on March 7.
However, the minister requested an exemption due to official commitments, which was denied. Consequently, a non-bailable arrest warrant was issued, but later suspended, and he was directed to submit surety bonds worth Rs100,000.
As per the case details as the FIR stated, "The purpose of Sanaullah's statements was to terrorise the judiciary, chief secretary, commissioner and people of the country,".
The plaintiff had alleged that the minister’s remarks created fear among institutions.
