Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Sentenced to 10 Years
A Sargodha Anti‑Terrorism Court (ATC) on 22 July 2025 sentenced Malik Ahmed Khan Bhachar, Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Sentenced to 10 Years imprisonment under anti-terrorism laws. He was accused of inciting riots, engaging in vandalism, and attacking public and military installations during the violent nationwide protests on 9 May 2023, following the arrest of former PM Imran Khan .
Co‑Accused and Broader Context
Bhachar was sentenced alongside MNA Ahmed Chattha, MNA Bilal Ejaz, and approximately 29 other PTI-affiliated figures, bringing the total accused in this case to 32 individuals, each handed a 10‑year sentence All were granted exemptions from personal court appearances during the trial
PTI’s Reaction: “Black Day for Democracy”
PTI leaders denounced the verdict as politically motivated. MPA Moeen Riaz Qureshi called it a “black day of democracy,” citing a lack of credible evidence and alleging that the judicial process was manipulated Bhachar has confirmed he will appeal to the Lahore High Court.
Wider Fallout
- The case stems from nationwide violence on 9 May 2023, involving vandalism of military sites, state buildings, and riots across multiple cities
- Several PTI leaders faced simultaneous legal action—some already tried in military courts, with pardons granted to a few, though hundreds remain detained
What Happens Next?
- The PTI will challenge the ATC’s ruling in the Lahore High Court, seeking to overturn what they call an unjust verdict
- The federal government aims to proceed with similar May 9-related trials against other PTI leaders, reinforcing its stance that the rule of law applies equally to all x
In summary: A major legal setback for PTI, with senior leadership convicted under anti-terrorism charges for their role in the May 9, 2023 riots. The party vehemently rejects the verdict as politically biased, and the battle now moves to the Lahore High Court.
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