IHC seeks FIA response on Imran, Bushra’s acquittal pleas in new Toshakhana case

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday issued notice to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) related to Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi’s acquittal pleas in the new Toshakhana case.

According to the details, the newly sworn-in Justice Inaam Ameen Minhas presided over the hearing on the acquittal requests.

The court has issued notice to FIA, seeking a response on the matter until January 28.

The couple was arrested on July 13, 2024, in the case regarding the retention of an expensive Bulgari jewellery set gifted by a foreign leader at a low price, saying it caused significant loss to the national exchequer.

During the hearing today, Imran Khan’s counsel, Barrister Salman Safdar, requested the court to issue a stay order on the trial proceedings, which Justice Raja Inam declined.

“There is no judicial precedent for staying criminal proceedings at this stage. We will issue a notice on your request and hear the other party,” the judge remarked.

Khan’s lawyer also requested a change of bench, suggesting that Justice Gul Hassan Aurangzeb, who had previously heard related five petitions, should preside over the acquittal pleas.

Justice Inam rejected the request, clarifying that those cases involved bail applications, whereas the current matter pertains to acquittal pleas. “Those were bail applications, which is a separate matter. This court will hear this case. Present your arguments on the merits of the case,” he said.