ATC Gives Divided Verdict in May 9 Case – Shah Mehmood Qureshi Acquitted and 10 years Jail toDr. Yasmin Rashid and Mian Mahmood Rasheed
In a milestone verdict handed down within the security walls of Kot Lakhpat Jail, an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in the city of Lahore issued a mixed verdict in the much-hyped May 9 violence case. The court acquitted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi on grounds of a lack of evidence, but handed party veterans Dr. Yasmin Rashid and Mian Mahmood Ur Rasheed 10 years of hard imprisonment for their involvement in the assault on Jinnah House.
This case, based on the violent protests that broke out on May 9, 2023, after PTI chairman Imran Khan was arrested, has been at the center of Pakistan’s political and legal debate. The country followed anxiously as the judiciary ruled the destiny of leaders of the country’s most influential opposition party.
Shah Mehmood Qureshi Acquittal: A Legal Relief
Shah Mehmood Qureshi, a former foreign minister and senior and well-known leader of PTI, was also among those alleged in the Sherpao Bridge case of arson an event connected to the mayhem that broke out on May 9. His lawyers had repeatedly asserted that Qureshi was not involved in the alleged act and was politically victimized.
After months of evidence scrutiny and hearings, the ATC discovered no credible evidence to directly implicate him in the arson case. In a major victory for Qureshi and his allies, the court declared his acquittal, along with six others on the same charges. The ruling upholds the policy of “innocent until proven guilty” and marks a turning point for Qureshi’s legal struggle.
Harsh Sentences for Yasmin Rashid and Mahmood ur Rasheed
By contrast, the court convicted Dr. Yasmin Rashid and Mian Mahmood ur Rasheed of masterminding and inciting the violent attack on Jinnah House, one of the most symbolically important government homes in Lahore. The prosecution produced what it said was persuasive evidence, such as call data records, social media presence, and witness accounts.
The court, in a solemn deliberation, handed down 10 years of hard imprisonment to each of the two leaders. The pronouncement was made under tight security at Kot Lakhpat Jail, in line with the severity of the case and its controversial nature. Both leaders’ supporters have been vocal in their indignation at the verdict, describing it as politically charged and unjust.
Political Reverberations and Public Response
The May 9 violence case continues to have shockwaves running through the political environment of Pakistan. PTI leaders have condemned the sentences as part of an extensive crackdown on opposition, while government ministers have praised the judiciary for bringing those accountable to book.
Public reaction remains divided. Supporters of Qureshi celebrate his release as a moment of vindication, while the sentencing of Yasmin Rashid a respected physician and long-time PTI figure has drawn widespread attention and debate.
Legal experts say this case could set a precedent for how politically charged incidents are handled in the future, especially when it involves top-tier party leadership and allegations of terrorism-related offenses.
Dust settles on this Verdict
As the dust settles on this verdict, appeal is imminent. PTI legal teams will try to contest the convictions of Yasmin Rashid and Mian Mahmood Ur Rasheed in the higher courts. In the meantime, the acquittal of Qureshi may revive his political fortunes, possibly making him a central figure in the party’s future strategy.
This split decision highlights the intricacies of justice in politically stormy periods a reminder that evidence must take precedence in the court of law, no matter the stature or status.
Follow Pakistan Updates for ongoing reports on legal updates, political developments, and live feeds.
