Female Detainees in Jinnah House Attack Sent to Jail by Lahore Anti-Terrorism Court

In a significant development, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore has sent 13 female detainees accused in the Jinnah House attack on May 9 to jail for a 14-day judicial remand. Among the detainees is Khadija Shah, a supporter of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and the prime suspect in the case. The decision was made by Judge Abhar Gul Khan after a thorough hearing of the case at the ATC.

Presenting the 13 women before the court, the police requested an extension of their remand, citing the need to recover petrol bombs and stolen goods allegedly belonging to the accused. However, the court declined the request for further physical remand and instead ordered that the women be sent to jail in judicial custody.

In related proceedings, the ATC also extended the judicial remand of PTI Central Punjab President Dr. Yasmin Rashid, who is facing charges for delivering speeches inciting violence. Additionally, the judicial remand of former Governor of Punjab Umar Sarfraz Cheema in the Askari Tower case was also extended.

The Punjab Home Department recently granted consular access to Khadija Shah, who holds Pakistani-American dual citizenship. This decision followed a formal request from the United States, with Washington closely monitoring Shah's case. State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasized the importance of foreign governments adhering to consular notifications and procedures when American citizens are detained.

The trial for the Jinnah House attack and related cases continues to draw national and international attention. As these events unfold, the public awaits further developments and the judicial process to bring clarity and justice to the victims and their families.