The Lahore High Court (LHC) Tuesday granted protective bail to Fawad Chaudhry for one week in 36 cases, reported 24NewsHd TV channel.
The hearing was presided over by a two-member bench led by Justice Miss Alia Neelum.
The court was attended by key figures including IG Punjab Dr Usman Anwar, DIG Kamran Adil, and other law enforcement officials, alongside Fawad Chaudhry himself and his legal representatives. Additional Advocate General Ghulam Sarwar Nahang represented the Punjab government.
During the proceedings, IG Punjab informed the court that Fawad Chaudhry was implicated in a total of forty cases, with three cases were discharged and one leading to acquittal. Presently, Chaudhry is facing charges in thirty-six cases, with the authorities meticulously compiling case records overnight.
Addressing Chaudhry's legal team, Justice Miss Alia Neelum suggested filing bail applications directly in the respective courts, possibly through video link, and emphasized the submission of necessary documents, including affidavits.
Ahsan Bhoon Advocate raised concerns about logistical challenges in remote areas for case appearances, prompting Justice Miss Alia Neelum to reassure him, highlighting Chaudhry's political prominence and the support he could garner.
However, Additional Advocate General Ghulam Sarwar Nahang expressed objections to remote appearances, citing potential difficulties for the prosecution and the precedent it may set for other cases.
In response, Chaudhry's lawyer argued that remote appearances would streamline the process and save time.
The debate over remote appearances escalated into a discussion on the political ramifications, with Justice Miss Alia Neelum cautioning against politicizing the issue.
IG Punjab assured the court of providing an opportunity for Chaudhry to file interim bail, leading to the court granting a one-week protective bail in the 36 cases.