ISLAMABAD: The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Islamabad has granted bail to Sher Afzal Marwat in seven cases, each on surety bonds of Rs. 5,000.
The cases were registered during protests at D-Chowk. Marwat, accompanied by his legal counsel, Advocate Riyasat Ali Azad, appeared before Judge Tahir Abbas Supra to seek bail.
During the hearing, the judge inquired about Marwat’s well-being, to which Marwat replied, “Don’t ask. Several cases have been filed against me. I have already filed a petition in the High Court, which is scheduled for a hearing on Friday. You even issued warrants against me yesterday.”
The judge clarified, “The order was not issued until yesterday. The case in which the warrants were issued pertains to remand.”
Marwat expressed his frustration, saying, “I am unaware of the exact number of cases filed against me. We have already surrendered before the court.”
The judge asked, “What does surrender mean?” Marwat explained, “We have approached the High Court. That is what surrender means.”
The judge remarked, “Surrender means you need to apply for bail. If my order is incorrect, you should approach the High Court.”
Advocate Riyasat Ali Azad argued, “We have already approached the High Court against all cases, and a restraining order is in place preventing arrest.”
The judge responded, “If the order is incorrect, file an appeal.” Azad clarified, “I am not questioning the order.” The judge maintained, “I cannot withdraw or suspend the order.”
Marwat highlighted, “I went to the High Court three days ago, yet the police label me as an absconder.” The judge remarked, “Non-bailable offenses are involved; the police are not obligated to inform you before arrest.”
Marwat replied, “Even you have been issuing warrants.”
Advocate Azad added, “Perhaps you have been misinformed about the nature of the restraining order we obtained.”
Marwat emphasized, “I am here to get the arrest warrants canceled.” However, the judge stated, “I cannot cancel the warrants.” Marwat countered, “You can issue them but cannot cancel them? I had no choice but to come here.”
Finally, the court granted bail to Marwat in cases registered at various police stations, including Secretariat, Kohsar, Ramna, Tarnol, and Karachi Company. The court has summoned the police, along with the case records, on December 10.
