ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday granted post-arrest bail to Bushra Bibi in a case related to Bulgari Jewelry set, but she could not be released as formalities could not be fulfilled for the issuance of the release order.

IHC Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb accepted the bail against a surety bond of Rs2 million.

During the hearing, Bushra Bibi’s legal counsel argued that she was entitled for the release as she was under detention for over 250 days and the prosecution agency does not require her custody for further investigation.

The legal counsel told the court that being a housewife, the spouse of former prime minister Imran Khan has nothing to do with the alleged offence.

The prosecutors of Federal In­­vestigation Agency (FIA) argu­­ed that state gifts received by public officials must be declared and purchased under legal procedures.

The FIA prosecutor emphasised that the founder of PTI, as a public office holder, was responsible for compliance with these regulations.

Justice Aurangzeb highlighted a broader perspective, referencing similar practices in international contexts, including a museum in Azerbaijan where gifts received by world leaders are displayed.

He also compared this case to that of Justice Qazi Faez Isa, where a spouse’s actions were scrutinised, but noted the distinction between the two cases.

Justice Aurangzeb questioned the prosecution about the necessity of investigating Bushra Bibi, particularly when no direct investigation was conducted against her. After hearing the arguments, he approved Bushra Bibi’s bail.

However, Bushra Bibi could not be released from the jail as the formalities could not be completed for the issuance of the Robkar (release order).

In a related development, Justice Aurangzeb, while hearing the petition of former prime minister Imran Khan seeking his medical treatment from his personal physicians, expressed dissatisfaction with the response of prison authorities.

During the hearing, the judge termed the conduct of jail officials and state counsel not appreciable and signaled that a formal order would be issued to address the matter.

The prison authorities, submitted a report outlining the medical services available within the jail.

According to the report, doctors are present for medical examinations three days a week, and meetings inside the prison have been suspended by the Punjab Home Department, effective from October 25.

Justice Aurangzeb, however, expressed concern about the quality of care provided, noting that the PTI founder is an under-trial prisoner who should have access to specialised medical attention, if required.

Published in Dawn, October 24th, 2024