The trial of PTI Chairman Imran Khan and his deputy Shah Mehmood Qureshi in the cipher case under the Official Secrets Act is anticipated to commence within two weeks. The FIA is working to finalize the challan by the upcoming week for the trial’s initiation in the recently established special court. Khan and Qureshi have both been detained in relation to the incident.
Trial Details and Background:
The trial for Imran Khan and Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s involvement in the cipher case, based on the Official Secrets Act, is expected to begin shortly. The FIA aims to complete the necessary challan by the following week, with the trial set to take place in the newly constituted special court. Both individuals have already been arrested in connection with the case.
Legal Implications for Imran Khan:
Imran Khan’s potential release in the Toshakhana case and suspension of his sentence may not lead to his freedom, as he remains incarcerated due to his arrest in the cipher case. This makes his legal predicament and chances of release more complicated.
Special Court and Its Formation:
The special court, formed several months ago and predating recent amendments to the Official Secrets Act, is set to handle the trial. The court’s establishment was prior to the FIA’s registration of FIR against Imran Khan and Shah Mehmood Qureshi under the Official Secrets Act. Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain, appointed by the Ministry of Law and Justice, will oversee these trials.
JIT Investigation and Cipher Copy:
Imran Khan’s arrest in the cipher case took place during his confinement in Attock jail due to the Toshakhana case. Khan was questioned by the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) over the missing diplomatic cipher, which he had previously used as proof of an international plot against him. During the JIT interrogation, Imran Khan acknowledged losing the encrypted copy.
Significance of the Cipher Case:
The cipher case centers around a diplomatic cipher that reportedly went missing from Imran Khan’s possession. This cipher had been employed by him as proof of a global plot to topple his regime. Due to its potential effects on Imran Khan’s accusations, the case is significant.
The impending trial of Imran Khan and Shah Mehmood Qureshi in the cipher case underscores the legal proceedings surrounding their alleged involvement under the Official Secrets Act. The case becomes more significant as a result of their detentions and the creation of a special court because it touches on sensitive information and national security-related matters.
