ATC expresses displeasure over accused's absence in Maneka torture case

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th May, 2026) The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) here on Thursday expressed strong displeasure over the non-appearance of a prime accused in the case related to the alleged torture of Khawar Maneka, observing that separate laws could not exist for ordinary citizens and lawyers.

Justice Tahir Abbas Siprawas hearing a petition requesting the inclusion of terrorism provisions in the case registered against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) lawyers concerning the alleged torture of Khawar Maneka, the former husband of Bushra Bibi. Arguments could not proceed on the petition filed by Naeem Haider Panjhutha and Usman Riaz regarding the invocation of anti-terrorism laws.

The court expressed displeasure over the absence of accused Ansar Kayani. "If Ansar Kayani does not appear, arrest warrants will be issued and his surety bonds will also be forfeited," Judge Sipra remarked.

"There cannot be one law for ordinary citizens and another law for lawyers. It is because of such things that we rank 126th [in global indices]. If arguments are not presented at the next hearing, I will decide the petition after reviewing the record," the judge added.

The court subsequently adjourned further proceedings until May 12.

An First Information Report related to the alleged torture of Khawar Maneka was registered at Ramna Police Station against PTI lawyers.