Lahore: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and Punjab Assembly opposition leader Malik Ahmed Bachhar has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in the 9 May case.
The verdict was announced by Judge Arshad Javed of the Lahore Anti-Terrorism Court during a jail trial held at Kot Lakhpat Prison. The hearing focused on the 9 May case, which involved inflammatory speeches and acts of arson at Sherpao Bridge. Both defense lawyers and the prosecution presented their final arguments before the court delivered its decision.
Alongside Malik Ahmed Bachhar, Member of the National Assembly Ahmed Chatha and all other party workers involved in the case were also given 10-year jail terms.
The court had earlier exempted 32 accused, including Ahmed Khan Bachhar, from appearing in person. As a result, none of the convicted leaders were present when the verdict was read.
The court also stated that the defense counsel for Dr. Yasmin Rashid will present further arguments tomorrow at 10 a.m., after which a ruling will be delivered.
Additionally, the trial of Shah Mahmood Qureshi and 14 other accused has been concluded, with 61 government witnesses recording their statements against them.
