ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court (IHC) has deferred its verdict on the petitions seeking the dismissal of the illicit marriage case filed against Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and his wife Bushra Bibi. Chief Justice Aamer Farooq presided over the hearing, where Imran Khan’s lawyer, Salman Akram Raja, presented arguments.
During the proceedings, Salman Akram Raja reviewed the statements of the petitioner and witnesses, asserting that the case was initiated to disgrace the petitioners. He argued that the notices were issued for political motives and to generate a scandal.
Justice Aamer Farooq inquired about the timing of the initial complaint. Salman Akram responded that the complaint was lodged in November 2023, almost six years after the marriage.
The court pointed out Khawar Manika’s claim that he divorced Bushra Bibi on November 14, leaving a gap of 48 days if the marriage with Imran Khan occurred on January 1.
Manika’s lawyer, Rizwan Abbasi, cited Shariah, stating that the waiting period (Iddat) after divorce is 90 days. He questioned the validity of the second Nikkah if the first marriage was legitimate, emphasizing that witnesses confirmed their presence at both ceremonies.
The judge raised concerns about proving the timeframe difference, to which Abbasi argued that both the husband and the prosecution would provide evidence. The court sought clarification on which husband, and Abbasi replied that the one with whom she lived for 28 years would testify. The judge questioned the significance of proving the timeline and suggested that even if proven, it might not constitute an offense.
Abbasi contended that declaring the marriage irregular would be against the law, asserting that Khawar Manika verbally divorced her in April 2017, despite having photos of a trip together in August.
After hearing the arguments, the court reserved its decision on the petitions.
