Zartaj Gul granted protective bail until August 11

PESHAWAR (Dunya News) - The Peshawar High Court has granted protective bail to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Zartaj Gul until August 11, allowing her time to appeal her conviction in the Lahore High Court.

According to the court’s written order, Zartaj Gul cannot be arrested until August 11, in light of the anti-terrorism court's (ATC) decision issued on July 31. The ATC in Faisalabad had sentenced her in absentia to 10 years in prison.

The court order stated that, as per her counsel, Zartaj Gul intends to challenge the conviction in the Lahore High Court.

Also Read: Zartaj Gul, Omar Ayub among other PTI leaders handed 10-year jail term in May 9 cases

The court emphasized that under the constitution, every accused is entitled to a fair trial and the right to defend themselves. It also noted that Gul had surrendered before the court.

Recognizing her right to appeal, the court ruled that she should not be arrested until she appears before the Lahore High Court.

Her protective bail was granted against a surety bond of Rs. 100,000 along with two personal guarantors. 

A special anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Faisalabad on July 31st sentenced several Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders — including Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, and Zartaj Gul — to 10 years in prison over their involvement in cases related to the May 9, 2023, violence.

The court sentenced Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, and Zartaj Gul to 10 years in prison. Member of the National Assembly Sahibzada Hamid Raza was also sentenced to 10 years in jail. Junaid Afzal Sahi received a 3-year prison sentence, which is the shortest sentence given by the court.

To recall, violent protests erupted across the country on May 9 following the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan. During these protests, several government and military buildings were attacked. Anti-terrorism cases were registered in various cities, and in Faisalabad, the cases were filed by the police.

This ruling follows a directive from the Supreme Court, which had ordered all trial courts to conclude May 9-related cases within four months. In compliance, the ATC conducted daily hearings to ensure timely judgment.