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       ISLAMABAD: The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Tuesday handed over 56 suspects of D-Chowk protest to police on a three-day physical remand.

       Presided over by Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra, ATC discharged one activist arrested in connection with the protest as the police could not prove his identification.

       During the hearing, the Margalla police presented 57 activists in court after completing identification parade.

       The police requested a 30-day physical remand for further investigation, which was strongly opposed by defence lawyer.

       The court discharged one activist from the case due to non-identification.

       The remaining 56 activists were remanded into police custody for three days instead of the requested 30-day remand.

       The same court granted interim bail to PTI Member of National Assembly Zartaj Gul in five cases registered over the D-Chowk protest. The court also barred the police from arresting her.

       Zartaj Gul appeared before the court, accompanied by her legal team.

       After hearing the arguments, the court approved interim bail in all five cases till January 9, directing her to submit bonds worth Rs5,000 for each case.

       Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra instructed that if Zartaj Gul is nominated in any other case, she should file the bail petition on the same date.

       The cases against Zartaj Gul were registered at Ramna, Secretariat, Kohsar, Tarnol and Aabpara police stations.

       The court adjourned the hearing till Jan 9, when further proceedings will take place.

       Published in Dawn, December 18th, 2024