ATC sentences Imaan, Hadi to 10 years in security breach case

Verdict in security breach case

Anti-terrorism court sentenced human rights lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and her husband Hadi Ali Chattha to 10 years in prison each in security breach case.

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Case background

Imaan and Hadi were tried in jail for alleged disruption of international cricket team security route and incitement to public unrest in 2024 case.

Legal charges

Sentenced under three legal provisions: Section 7 (h) of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 for serious coercion of public servant, Section 186 PPC for obstructing public servant, and Section 353 PPC for assault on police officials.

Concurrent sentences

All sentences run concurrently: 10 years prison term with Rs100,000 fine each under Anti-Terrorism Act, one year prison term with Rs50,000 fine each under PPC, and two years prison term under PPC.

Court justification

Court held Imaan and Hadi jointly responsible for offence through common intention to compromise security arrangements by pressuring security officials.

Constitutional rights

Court acknowledged right of movement as constitutional right but stated it is subject to law of land and nobody may attack law enforcement agencies.

Sri Lankan cricket reference

Court cited 2009 attack on Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore as evidence of intent to create terror through security breach.

Acquitted charges

Imaan and Hadi acquitted on charges under Section 506 ii, 120-b, 148, and 149 of PPC for criminal intimidation, conspiracy, rioting, and unlawful assembly.

Trial process

Trial began after both pleaded not guilty; state counsel Atif Mehmood cross-examined witnesses; prosecution presented seven witnesses.

Pre-trial challenges

Couple challenged trial in IHC and SC; IHC refused to stay trial; SC suspended sentences pending IHC verdict.

Prisoners of conscience

Imaan and Hadi claimed they were targeted for human rights work and pro bono legal services to marginalized communities.

Constitutional rights violation

Imaan stated constitutional rights to fair trial, due process, and human dignity were infringed during trial.

Jail time impact

Couple spent third year of marriage in jail; Imaan noted they endured hardship for activism and human rights work.

Arrest history

Couple arrested on Jan 23 for protesting outside IHC and allegedly manhandling IHC Bar Association president.

Previous convictions

Sentenced to 17 years under Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act for social media posts case; SC suspended sentences pending appeal.

Re-arrest

Re-arrested on March 22 last year in security breach case after SC suspended previous sentences.