Matiullah Jan Files Petition Against 2-Day Physical Remand in Islamabad High Court
Islamabad:Renowned journalist and YouTuber Matiullah Jan, who has been implicated in a terrorism case under various sections, has filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court challenging his two-day physical remand. The petition was submitted by prominent lawyer, Iman Mazari, who announced the legal move in a video message, stating that they had filed a revision petition against the order of the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) and urged the High Court to hear the case immediately.
Iman Mazari confirmed that they had requested the Islamabad High Court to schedule the hearing for the petition as soon as possible, as any delay beyond today would render the appeal ineffective. She expressed hope that the court would accept the petition and promptly set a hearing for the matter.
Matiullah Jan, a prominent critic of the government, was arrested on Wednesday night and initially reported as missing. However, the following day, his arrest was confirmed, and he was taken to the Margalla Police Station. A case was registered against him under various sections, including charges related to terrorism.
On Thursday, Matiullah Jan was presented before the Islamabad Anti-Terrorism Court, where the judge approved his two-day physical remand and ordered his reappearance in court on November 30.
**Matiullah Jan Denies Allegations**
During his court appearance, Matiullah Jan spoke to the media, rejecting the charges against him as false. He stated, “I don’t even smoke, yet a false case has been fabricated against me. But I am not afraid, and I will continue doing my work.” He further added that such actions were damaging the credibility of the institutions involved.
**Charges Against Matiullah Jan**
The police have registered a terrorism FIR (First Information Report) against Matiullah Jan under multiple sections. These include allegations of driving his car into a police party assigned to a checkpoint, driving under the influence, possession of narcotic substances (ice) found in his vehicle, and pointing a gun at police officers.
The case has sparked significant attention and raised concerns regarding the treatment of journalists in Pakistan, especially those critical of the government. Matiullah Jan’s legal team and supporters are hopeful that the Islamabad High Court will swiftly intervene and address what they describe as a miscarriage of justice.
