Imaan, Hadi move IHC against conviction in security breach case

Islamabad-based human rights attorneys Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and her husband Hadi Ali Chattha have filed appeals to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) against their convictions in a security breach case. They also requested the suspension of their sentences and release on bail while awaiting the appeal. The appeals were filed by advocates Faisal Siddiqui, Riasat Azad, and Zainab Janjua, citing violations of the Anti-Terrorism Act and Code of Criminal Procedure.

The ATC sentenced both to 10 years in prison for the security breach, with one-year sentences and fines under the Pakistan Penal Code for obstructing a public servant and assault. The IHC appeals argue that the trial court failed to provide a fair trial, and that the conviction resulted from illegal and arbitrary proceedings. The couple contends that the prosecution evidence was recorded without their presence, and that their counsel was not allowed proper consultation.

The attorneys also argue that the conviction under the Anti-Terrorism Act is unsustainable due to lack of proof of the design or purpose required under Section 6 of the act. International human rights organizations have called for the immediate and unconditional release of Imaan and Hadi, condemning the misuse of anti-terrorism legislation to target lawyers for their human rights work.