Aleema Khan Granted Court Exemption from Attendance in November 26 Protest Case

Key Points

• Rawalpindi ATC approves Aleema Khan’s attendance exemption.
• She is accused in the November 26 protest case.
• Court postpones proceedings to March 9.
• Prosecutor opposed, citing delay in trial.
• Judge warns that future exemptions will not be granted.

Summary

A Rawalpindi Anti‑Terrorism Court has approved the request by Aleema Khan — sister of Pakistan Tehreek‑e‑Insaf founder Imran Khan — for exemption from personal court attendance in the November 26 protest case. The hearing has been postponed until March 9, with the judge cautioning that no more attendance exemptions will be granted.

Detailed News

Exemption Granted by Anti‑Terrorism Court

RAWALPINDI: The Anti‑Terrorism Court (ATC), presided over by Judge Amjad Ali Shah, has accepted an application from Aleema Khan for exemption from personal appearance in the ongoing November 26 protest case. She did not appear in court and sought relief from attendance, which the court approved after hearing arguments from both sides.

The court then adjourned the case and scheduled the next hearing for March 9, directing that all accused — including Aleema Khan — must appear in person on that date.

Prosecutor Opposed Exemption

During the hearing, the state prosecutor strongly opposed the exemption request, arguing that Aleema Khan’s absence had already caused delays and suggesting that an arrest warrant be issued or a state counsel be appointed to continue trial proceedings. Despite this objection, the judge accepted the application for that day only and postponed the proceedings.

Court’s Warning

Judge Amjad Ali Shah made it clear that future exemptions will not be tolerated, emphasizing that the accused must appear in court on the next scheduled date. All counsel involved were instructed to ensure presence to avoid further delays in the trial process.