Is the FIR against Imran Khan's sister an act of political victimisation?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The FIR against Aleema Khan is perceived as a political attack by PTI.
- PTI claims the justice system is being manipulated against its members.
- The inclusion of terrorism charges has raised eyebrows.
- PTI plans to boycott National Assembly sessions to protest their treatment.
- Support for Imran Khan's family is a rallying point for PTI.
Islamabad, Sep 11 (NationPress) The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has denounced the recent filing of an FIR against Aleema Khan, sister of party founder Imran Khan, calling it a clear instance of political repression. The FIR also names another party member, Naeem Haider Panjutha, among several others.
According to a statement from the PTI's main media office, the FIR was originally filed under sections 506, 147, 149, 382, and 427 of the Pakistan Penal Code. However, the party criticized the inclusion of terrorism charges that appeared to be hastily added, as reported by the prominent newspaper, Dawn.
The statement read, "When our members arrived at regular courts in the morning, they were forcibly brought before an Anti-Terrorism Court, highlighting the manipulation of the legal system for political ends."
PTI asserted that this case is entirely concocted and driven by political vendetta. The party further indicated that the Punjab Police and provincial authorities have turned into a factory for 'fake' FIRs, particularly targeting Imran Khan's family.
They emphasized that Aleema Khan is facing these accusations merely for her support of her brother and for advocating his message to the public. The spokesperson characterized her as a brave and dignified woman, reiterating the party's unwavering support.
On September 1, PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan announced plans for the party to withdraw from National Assembly (NA) meetings in response to the “unjust treatment” of its members, as reported by local media.
Speaking to reporters with fellow PTI members in Islamabad, Khan declared, "From this point forward, we will abstain from National Assembly sessions and instead focus on protests and boycotts." He noted that PTI's parliamentary group convened at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House, where they received directives from Imran Khan.
The chairman accused the authorities of disqualifying PTI representatives, removing them from their positions, and suppressing their voices. He stated, "Even when we attempt to celebrate Independence Day, we are met with resistance. Despite numerous challenges, we participated in sessions to voice our demands democratically, yet we are denied the opportunity to speak."
In August, PTI members resigned from parliamentary committees following guidance from Imran Khan, marking a strategic move in their political campaign that includes a boycott of upcoming by-elections.