Court Bars Arrests of PTI Leaders, Extends Pre-Arrest Bail Hearings Until January 19

Islamabad: The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Islamabad has barred the arrest of all accused, including PTI leader Bushra Bibi, in cases related to various protests.

During hearings on 256 pre-arrest bail applications filed by PTI leaders, the court extended the proceedings until January 19. Judge Abul Hasanat Muhammad Zulqarnain presided over the hearings.

While commenting during the session, the judge remarked, “I do not find this year to be favorable,” to which PTI lawyers humorously suggested scheduling the hearings in the next year instead.

The court adjourned further hearings on all bail applications to January 19, 2026.

PTI leaders, including Junaid Akbar, Abdul Qayyum Niazi, and Sheharyar Afridi, appeared in court, while others such as Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, Zartaj Gul, and Shahram Turki filed requests for exemption from personal appearance.

Cases against PTI leaders relate to protests held on November 26, October 4, the Singjani rally, and demonstrations outside the Supreme Court.