Imran Khan PTI Granted Bail in May 9 Cases by Supreme Court August 2025 | News GUY

 Supreme Court Grants Bail to Imran Khan in May 9 Cases

Date of Ruling: On August 21, 2025, the Supreme Court of Pakistan approved Imran Khan’s bail pleas in eight cases related to the violent events of May 9, 2023.

Bench and Legal Arguments

Bench Composition: The verdict was delivered by a three-member bench led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, with Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Justice Muhammad Shafi as the other members.

Prior Proceedings: Imran Khan’s bail had previously been rejected twice—first by an anti-terrorism court in November 2024, and then by the Lahore High Court on June 24, 2025.

Key Legal Questions Considered:

1. Whether final findings could be issued at the bail stage.

2. Whether the principle of consistency applied, since bail had already been granted in similar conspiracy-related cases.

Prosecution’s Argument: The prosecution maintained that bail hearings are interim and do not prejudice the trial. They also claimed there was evidence of conspiracy linked to the May 9 incidents, particularly through social media activity.

Supreme Court’s Rationale: The bench noted that assessing the merits of the cases at the bail stage would be inappropriate and should be left for trial courts. The judges also emphasized the principle of consistency, ruling that since bail had already been granted in similar cases, it should apply here as well.

Legal Context and Developments

Background: The May 9, 2023 Riots

The May 9 riots broke out after Imran Khan’s arrest in a corruption case. Demonstrations quickly escalated into violent attacks on military installations and government buildings. As a result, dozens of cases were filed against PTI leaders and supporters under anti-terrorism laws, with trials proceeding in both civilian and military courts.

Preceding Legal Developments

In November 2024, an anti-terrorism court rejected Imran Khan’s bail.

On June 24, 2025, the Lahore High Court upheld that rejection.

The Supreme Court, however, pressed for speedy hearings. Chief Justice Yahya Afridi dismissed repeated requests for delays and insisted on proceeding with the bail cases.

Wider Crackdown on PTI

On July 31, 2025, an anti-terrorism court sentenced over 100 PTI members—including prominent leaders—to prison terms ranging from one to ten years for their roles in the May 9 riots. This ruling intensified political pressure on PTI and heightened the stakes of Imran Khan’s bail hearings.

Implications of the Bail Decision

Judicial Milestone: The Supreme Court reaffirmed that bail proceedings should not be conflated with trial merits, reinforcing procedural fairness and consistency in legal treatment.

Remaining Obstacles: PTI leaders claim that only one case now stands between Imran Khan and his release, though that case remains unresolved.

Political Impact: The decision provides a major relief to Imran Khan and his party, at a time when PTI is facing mass convictions and political restrictions. It is seen as a symbolic win that boosts the morale of his supporters.