The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has decided to transfer the Nikah case involving Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi to another court, according to Pakistan Talk Show. This case will now be heard by Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka.
The transfer request came after Khawar Maneka, Bushra Bibi’s former husband, expressed objections against the current presiding judge, Session Judge Shahrukh Arjumand. Following these objections, Judge Arjumand wrote to the Chief Justice of the IHC requesting the case’s transfer. He highlighted the ongoing delays and objections raised by Maneka’s counsel and suggested that a different judge should handle the case to avoid further complications.
Background of the Nikah Case
The case centers on allegations that Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi married during the iddat period, a three-month waiting period mandated by Sharia law following a woman’s divorce, during which she cannot remarry. Khawar Maneka has accused the couple of violating this rule and committing fornication. The marriage took place in February 2018, with the nikah officiated by Mufti Saeed and witnessed by close relatives and associates.
Previous Proceedings and Sentence
Earlier this year, both Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were sentenced to seven years imprisonment and fined Rs 500,000 each by Judge Qudratullah, who found them guilty of marrying during the iddat period. However, the defense has continuously challenged these rulings and sought their appeals.
Implications of the Case Transfer
The transfer of the case to Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka marks a significant development. Judge Shahrukh Arjumand had already dismissed an earlier plea from Khawar Maneka on April 30, 2024, and had expressed concerns about delaying tactics by Maneka’s counsel. By transferring the case, the IHC aims to ensure an impartial hearing and expedite the judicial process.
This development is crucial for Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, as they continue to fight the legal battle to overturn their convictions.