The Anti-Terrorism Court Lahore on Tuesday indicted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders Dr Yasmin Rashid, Ejaz Chaudhry, and Mahmood-ul-Rashid in the May 9 arson cases.
The charges against the PTI leaders are linked to the tumultuous events that unfolded following the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan in the Al-Qadir Trust case.
May 9, 2023, witnessed a nationwide protest by PTI supporters, during which a spate of violence erupted, resulting in significant damage to public and private property, as well as loss of life and injuries.
The protests spiraled into chaos as military, civil, and private installations were targeted, with reports of arson, vandalism, and clashes with law enforcement authorities.
Notably, the Corps Commander's residence in Lahore - also known as Jinnah House - was stormed by protesters, while a gate of the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi was breached.
In response to the mayhem, law enforcement agencies swiftly took action, arresting approximately 1,900 individuals allegedly involved in the violence and unrest. Cases were also registered against Imran Khan and other PTI workers in connection with the events of May 9.
Dr. Yasmin Rashid, a prominent figure within the PTI ranks, along with other party leaders and activists, found themselves entangled in legal proceedings following their inclusion in a First Information Report (FIR) lodged by Sarwar Road police.
The charges leveled against them include allegations of terrorism and involvement in the purported attack on the Corps Commander's House.
