Former Punjab CM’s Principal Secretary Mohammad Khan Bhatti Released After 697 Days in Custody
Lahore:Mohammad Khan Bhatti, the former Principal Secretary to former Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervez Elahi, has been released from custody after spending 697 days in detention. Bhatti’s release followed the approval of his bail, and he was freed from Services Hospital, where he had been held under detention.
The Anti-Corruption Court approved Bhatti’s bail today, which led to his immediate release. Bhatti faced multiple charges, including alleged illegal appointments in the Punjab Assembly and other corruption-related cases. His detention had been a subject of controversy, particularly among political circles, with many viewing his prolonged custody as politically motivated.
Mohammad Khan Bhatti had been arrested in connection with an investigation into corruption and irregularities during the tenure of Chaudhry Pervez Elahi as the Chief Minister of Punjab. The charges against Bhatti include involvement in illegal recruitments and financial irregularities within provincial departments.
Bhatti’s release marks a significant development in the ongoing legal and political battles surrounding the former Punjab government. While his supporters hailed the bail decision, critics have questioned the speed at which the case progressed in the courts, reflecting the political tension and legal complexities that continue to surround the opposition leaders from the Pakistan Muslim League (PML-Q).