Islamabad ATC grants three-day physical remand of former senator Mushtaq Ahmad

An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Islamabad has handed over former senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan and another suspect to police on a three-day physical remand in connection with a case registered over a protest in the federal capital.

An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Islamabad has handed over former senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan and another suspect to police on a three-day physical remand in connection with a case registered over a protest in the federal capital.

The suspects were produced before Duty Judge Rukhsanda Shaheen at the ATC, where police requested a 30-day physical remand. Prosecutors told the court that investigators needed additional time to recover a vehicle and weapons allegedly linked to the case.

After hearing arguments from both sides, the court approved a three-day physical remand of Mushtaq Ahmad and the other suspect, directing authorities to present them again after completion of the remand period.

The case was registered at Islamabad’s Shalimar Police Station on July 31, following a complaint submitted by Sub-Inspector Ghulam Murtaza. According to the first information report (FIR), Mushtaq Ahmad allegedly led a gathering of around 400 to 500 people in Islamabad’s F-10 area.

The FIR accused the former senator of delivering speeches through loudspeakers, encouraging the closure of shops, and raising slogans against government institutions. It further stated that the protesters later moved towards Sambal Road with the intention of marching toward Main Jinnah Avenue and blocking major routes.

According to police claims mentioned in the FIR, the district administration informed Mushtaq Ahmad that the gathering was being held without a required no-objection certificate (NOC) and asked participants to disperse. However, authorities alleged that protesters blocked a main road near Shalimar Plaza at around 7:10pm.

The FIR also accused protesters of damaging a media DSNG vehicle, private cars, and attacking police personnel by throwing stones. It further alleged that some individuals took anti-riot equipment from police officers and issued threats.

Earlier, Mushtaq Ahmad’s political group, Pakistan Rights Movement (PRM), had claimed that he was detained by Punjab police on July 28 while returning from Azad Pattan Bridge after allegedly being denied entry into Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Police officials at the time did not officially confirm the detention.

Mushtaq later announced a gathering in Islamabad’s F-10 area on July 31, describing it as an event to express solidarity with Kashmir, offer condolences, and promote peace and reconciliation.

The latest court proceedings come amid heightened political activity and demonstrations in different parts of the country. Authorities continue to investigate the Islamabad protest case, while further legal proceedings will determine the next course of action against the suspects.