The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore on Wednesday reviewed the record of cases filed against senior PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi. The former foreign minister is facing five separate charges related to incidents of police vehicle burnings that occurred near Mughulpura, Zaman Park, and the Jinnah House.
During the court session, the police presented the complete records of the cases to the court. However, Qureshi’s lawyer, Rana Mudassar Omar, was absent from the proceedings. An assistant representing the defense informed the court that road blockages had hindered the senior counsel’s ability to attend the hearing. Despite the inconvenience, the court noted that the roads had been cleared, and indicated that the defense could request a new date for the next hearing if necessary.
The court session was brief, with the administrative judge making remarks and indicating that a future date would be scheduled for the continuation of the proceedings. The case revolves around the charges of destruction of public property, including the burning of police vehicles, during protests that took place at the specified locations. These incidents have sparked significant controversy, particularly given Qureshi’s prominent role in the political landscape.
As the legal process moves forward, it remains to be seen how these cases will unfold, as Qureshi and his legal team prepare to address the charges against him. The political implications of the case, coupled with its connection to ongoing political unrest in the country, continue to make it a subject of keen interest.
