| Case ID |
20ca65bd-dcdf-46cb-97ef-42911a7d756b |
| Body |
View case body. Login to View |
| Case Number |
Criminal Appeal No. 40009 of 2019 |
| Decision Date |
Oct 11, 2021 |
| Hearing Date |
Oct 11, 2021 |
| Decision |
The Lahore High Court allowed the appeal against the conviction of Muhammad Iftikhar, determining that the prosecution failed to prove the charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The court found that the evidence presented was insufficient to establish that the accused was a member of a banned organization or that he had engaged in any terrorist activities. The court emphasized that the prosecution must provide unimpeachable evidence to support serious allegations, and in this case, the evidence was deemed lacking. As a result, the appellant was acquitted of all charges and ordered to be released from custody. |
| Summary |
In the case of Muhammad Iftikhar vs The STATE, the Lahore High Court addressed serious allegations under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The appellant was accused of fundraising for a banned organization, Jash-e-Muhammad. However, the court found no substantial evidence to support the claims. Witnesses failed to confirm the appellant's involvement with the organization or any terrorist activities. The ruling highlighted the necessity for the prosecution to present strong, credible evidence, especially when the charges involve severe implications like terrorism. The case underscores the principle of 'innocent until proven guilty', reinforcing that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. Ultimately, the court's decision to acquit Muhammad Iftikhar reflects a commitment to upholding justice and due process. This case serves as a critical reference point for similar legal proceedings involving the Anti-Terrorism Act, emphasizing the importance of credible evidence and the rights of the accused. |
| Court |
Lahore High Court
|
| Entities Involved |
Not available
|
| Judges |
AALIA NEELUM,
FAROOQ HAIDER
|
| Lawyers |
Not available
|
| Petitioners |
MUHAMMAD IFTIKHAR
|
| Respondents |
The STATE and another
|
| Citations |
2023 SLD 1124,
2023 MLD 564
|
| Other Citations |
Not available
|
| Laws Involved |
Anti Terrorism Act, 1997
|
| Sections |
8,
9,
11-F(5),
11-H,
11-N,
11-I,
11-J
|