DERA ISMAIL KHAN: An additional sessions judge in Paharpur has cancelled the interim bail of two members of a so-called tribal court — Malik Inayat and Mohammad Ramzan — in Bhagwani Vani case, and handed them over to the police.

The accused had obtained interim bail from the additional district and sessions judge in the case related to the suicide of Adil Hajam, who took his own life to save his 11-year-old daughter from being given as Vani in a local Panchayat decision.

During Wednesday’s hearing, lawyer Saleemullah Ranazai represented the accused, while former tehsil bar president Nazar Niazi Advocate and public prosecutor Shehab Alam represented Adil’s family. After hearing arguments from both sides, the judge cancelled the interim bail and ordered the police to take the accused into custody.

Investigation officer Zameer Hussain stated that the accused would be presented before the area magistrate today (Thursday) for remand. He further confirmed that all suspects in the Bhagwani Vani case had now been arrested.

It is noteworthy that Adil Hajam had taken his life after being distressed by the Panchayat’s decision to give his daughter as Vani. In an audio message recorded before his death, Adil held the Panchayat and several individuals responsible, prompting the police to register a case and arrest the nominated persons.

Published in Dawn, March 21st, 2025