The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has urged the Islamabad High Court (IHC) to hold an in-camera hearing of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan's bail plea in the cipher case. The FIA argues that an open court trial could harm the country's ties with other states, as the case involves sensitive information.
The PTI chief's lawyer, Salman Safdar, has opposed the FIA's plea for an in-camera hearing. He argues that the FIA never moved such a plea when they argued the case in the trial court, and that any sensitive information in the case can be discussed in the chamber or given to the court in writing.
The IHC has reserved its verdict on the FIA's plea for an in-camera hearing, and is expected to announce a new date for the hearing.
Khan is accused of violating the Official Secrets Act by sharing classified information with foreign media outlets. He has denied the allegations, and says that he was simply trying to protect Pakistan's national interests.
The cipher case is one of nine cases in which Khan is currently seeking bail. The other cases are related to the May 9 incidents in Islamabad, the Toshakhana case, and other charges such as violation of Section 144 and an attempt to murder.
The outcome of the IHC's decision on the FIA's plea for an in-camera hearing could have a significant impact on the course of the cipher case. If the court allows an in-camera hearing, the public will be excluded from the proceedings and the media will not be able to report on the case in detail. This could make it more difficult for Khan to defend himself against the allegations and could also raise concerns about transparency in the judicial process.
If the IHC denies the FIA's plea, the case will be heard in an open court, which will allow the public and the media to follow the proceedings. This could give Khan a better platform to defend himself and could also help to ensure that the case is conducted in a fair and transparent manner.
