PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court has issued a detailed four-page verdict addressing applications submitted by PTI leaders seeking protective bail. The decision advises the formation of a larger bench to handle such cases, as proposed by the Federal Prosecutor General.
The verdict notes that the Federal Prosecutor General argued applicants frequently approach courts for similar relief, which amounts to an abuse of the judicial process. It also highlighted instances where PTI leader Asad Qaiser failed to appear before relevant courts despite having been granted protective bail.
The court observed that some individuals continue to stay on bail for prolonged periods without cooperating in ongoing investigations, thereby breaching legal obligations.
Additionally, the Federal Prosecutor General pointed out the absence of a consistent policy among courts regarding the issuance of protective or transit bail, which stands in contradiction to Supreme Court directives.
Taking these issues into account, the Peshawar High Court has instructed the Chief Justice to establish a larger bench to examine matters concerning protective bail. It further directed the Federal Prosecutor General to submit a comprehensive record of all cases filed against the applicants within seven days.
The ruling underscored that judicial relief should not be exploited for protests or anti-state activities. Applicants were explicitly cautioned to adhere to legal boundaries when utilizing court orders, failing which they would be subject to strict legal repercussions.
