Pakistan's Imran says Iddat case lodged to hurt his dignity, repute
Former Pakistan's Premier Imran Khan who recently faced imprisonment and disqualification in the Toshakhana case, found himself sentenced in the Iddat case, marking his third conviction within a week.
Senior civil judge Qudratullah, after a jail trial, sentenced Imran Khan and his spouse, Bushra Bibi, to seven years in prison, along with a fine of Rs0.5 million each. The charges pertained to 'contracting marriage during the 'Iddat' (period of waiting)' of the former first lady.
Bushra Bibi, already serving time at Imran Khan's Banigala residence following her conviction in the Toshakhana reference. saw the judge nullify the 'nikah' between her and Mr. Khan, solemnized on January 1, 2018.
The sentence was issued under Section 496 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which stipulates punishment for dishonestly or fraudulently undergoing a marriage ceremony while knowing it is not lawful, with a potential imprisonment term of up to seven years and a fine.
The court asserted that the 'nikah' took place during the 'mandatory Iddat period' of Bushra Bibi. However, it acknowledged the Feb 14, 2018, 'nikah' as legal, confirming the couple's continued "legitimate relationship."
Imran Khan denounced the case as politically motivated, aimed at tarnishing his dignity and reputation. Bushra Bibi, supporting the claim, stated that her ex-husband Khawar Fareed Manika had divorced her in April but signed the divorce deed in November 2017. Both Khan and Bibi requested the court to allow them to present witnesses in their defense.
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