Seven Cases Registered Against Bushra Bibi Under Multiple Laws
LAHORE: Bushra Bibi, the wife of former Prime Minister and PTI founder Imran Khan, is facing seven legal cases filed in various cities across Punjab. The charges, stemming from her recent video statement referencing Saudi Arabia, include violations under the Telegraph Act 1885, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA-2016), and blasphemy-related provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).
Cases Under Telegraph Act
One case each was filed in Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, and Rajanpur police stations under the Telegraph Act. In Dera Ghazi Khan, complainant Yaseen alleged Bushra’s statement hurt national sentiments. Similarly, Rajanpur police filed an FIR, terming her remarks a “high-level conspiracy.” Another case was lodged in Layyah under the same law.
PECA-2016 and Religious Charges
In Multan, the Qutabpur police registered a case under PECA-2016 and PPC provisions. Complainant Umair Maqsood accused Bushra of spreading hatred against the Pakistan Army, Saudi Arabia, and former army chief Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa. Sections 298, 295-A, and 296 of the PPC were invoked, covering religious disrespect and incitement of religious hatred.
Gujranwala and Bahawalnagar Cases
Two FIRs were registered in Gujranwala, one under PECA-2016 and the other under the Telegraph Act. The Civil Lines police received a complaint from a local resident alleging that Bushra’s video statement undermined Pakistan-Saudi relations and fueled religious discord. A similar complaint led to a case in Bahawalnagar, where the statement was labeled a conspiracy against the nation.
The allegations range from spreading religious hatred to undermining national interests and relations with an allied nation. These developments highlight the legal challenges Bushra Bibi faces in the wake of her controversial remarks.
