IHC Proceedings Highlight Imran Khan’s Role in Handling Sensitive Cipher Document

In proceedings before the Islamabad High Court (IHC), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) prosecutor Hamid Ali Shah underscored former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s responsibility in handling a sensitive cipher document, highlighting potential risks arising from its mishandling. Shah emphasized Imran Khan’s failure to secure the cipher appropriately, noting that its dissemination to unauthorized individuals posed significant security threats.

The hearing, presided over by Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, focused on appeals lodged by Imran Khan and former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in the cipher case. Shah reiterated the classified nature of the cipher, emphasizing the mandatory disposal of its copies after six months, even after declassification.

Following a decision made during a National Security Committee (NSC) meeting, Shah informed the court that all cipher copies, except the one held by Imran Khan, were returned and properly disposed of. The prosecutor clarified that legal representation was not compulsory for defense statements under Section 342, addressing the chief justice’s query on the matter.

Regarding potential charges for the deliberate and negligent loss of the cipher document, Shah explained the concurrent pursuit of both charges, considering the differing timelines of relevant actions. In response to queries about Imran Khan’s awareness of the cipher’s sensitivity, Shah referenced the former premier’s public acknowledgment of its significance and the potential consequences of its leakage.

Shah also addressed the involvement of ex-principal secretary Azam Khan, stating that while Azam Khan did not directly receive the document, it was handled by his staff and eventually passed to Imran Khan. The prosecutor underscored Imran Khan’s acknowledgment of the cipher’s importance, citing statements made on various platforms, including his YouTube channel.

The credibility of Imran Khan’s YouTube statements as testimony was discussed, with Shah reaffirming their significance in establishing the former premier’s awareness of the cipher’s sensitivity. Additionally, the Islamabad advocate general petitioned for the submission of an FIR and records related to the alleged abduction of witness Azam Khan, a request granted by the court.

The case is scheduled for further deliberation on May 8, as the court continues to examine the complexities surrounding the handling of the cipher document.

Also read: SC Resumes Hearing on Alleged Interference by Intelligence Agencies in Judicial Affairs