The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday granted bail to former Prime Minister Imran Khan in a recent Toshakhana case. Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb presided over the hearing and approved bail, contingent on the submission of two surety bonds worth Rs. 1 million each. The court directed Khan to cooperate fully with the trial court, warning that his bail could be revoked for non-compliance.

Details of the Case

The case involves allegations by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) that Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, illegally retained a luxurious Bulgari jewellery set, including a necklace, earrings, bracelets, and rings—received as a gift from a Saudi royal during their May 2021 visit to the kingdom. The FIA claims that the couple paid a significantly reduced price for the set, causing financial losses to the national exchequer.

Timeline of Legal Proceedings

•   July 13: Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were arrested in the case shortly after their acquittal in the Iddat case.
•   August 5: Khan was jailed following his arrest in another Toshakhana case.
•   September: Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand scheduled the couple’s indictment for October 2, later deferring it to October 5 at the defence’s request.
•   October 24: Bushra Bibi was released from Adiala Jail after securing bail in the case.

Court’s Decision and Conditions

The IHC granted Imran Khan bail with a condition to appear before the trial court. Failure to comply or cooperate with the trial could lead to the revocation of bail. His wife, Bushra Bibi, had already secured bail in the same case last month.

Background on Toshakhana Controversies

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) alleges that Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi violated Toshakhana rules by retaining the jewellery set at undervalued prices. The case is part of broader investigations into the alleged misuse of state gifts during Khan’s tenure as premier, which have sparked significant legal and political challenges for the former leader.