Special Court judge reveals reasons for holding trial of Imran Khan inside jail
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A newly established special court, dedicated to handling cases under the Official Secrets Act of 1923, recently made a notable decision regarding the proceedings against former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The case revolved around allegations of his involvement in the unauthorized possession and disclosure of a classified diplomatic cypher. To ensure the safety of Imran Khan and prevent any undesirable incidents, the court conducted the hearings within the confines of Attock Jail.
The presiding judge of the Special Court, Abul Hasnat Muhammad Zulqarnain, issued a written order summarizing the events that transpired on August 16 and 30 during the hearings. On August 16, the proceedings were held at the Judicial Complex. It was during this time that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) requested a 14-day physical remand for Imran Khan. Notably, Imran Khan was already in custody for the Toshakhana case at the time of the hearings.
The Official Secrets Act grants the court the authority to make decisions regarding the custody status of the accused, whether it be physical remand, judicial remand, or granting bail. Section 13 (3) of the Act clearly outlines this discretionary power of the court. Judge Zulqarnain emphasized the need to safeguard the accused individual's life and avoid any potential risks. Given that Imran Khan was already under judicial custody for the Toshakhana Case, the court was hesitant to bring him out of jail premises, considering the sensitivity of the situation and the potential for unexpected incidents.
The court order highlighted the exceptional nature of the trial, emphasizing that this was no ordinary case. As a Special Court responsible for handling sensitive and high-profile cases registered under the Official Secrets Act of 1923, the court recognized the gravity of the proceedings. The case involved a cypher, and the court acknowledged the importance of maintaining the sovereignty of the state throughout the proceedings.
In conclusion, the establishment of a special court to address cases under the Official Secrets Act of 1923 marked a significant development in legal proceedings. The decision to hold hearings within Attock Jail, as detailed in the court order by Judge Abul Hasnat Muhammad Zulqarnain, underscored the court's commitment to ensuring the safety of the accused, Imran Khan, and maintaining the integrity of the sensitive case involving a classified diplomatic cypher. This decision was rooted in the recognition of the potential risks and the unique circumstances of the trial, which warranted special precautions to protect the accused individual and the interests of the state
