In a significant reversal, the Punjab government has restored the jail trial for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in the May 9 GHQ attack case, issuing a formal notification that moves the high-profile proceedings back inside the confines of Adiala Jail.

The hearing, scheduled for tomorrow under the jurisdiction of the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Rawalpindi, has prompted a request for heightened security. Sources indicate the jail superintendent has formally asked the City Police Officer (CPO) for additional personnel to manage the anticipated gathering of approximately 109 accused individuals and 150 lawyers outside the correctional facility.

This development marks a sharp turn from the provincial government’s earlier stance. On September 15, authorities had ended the in-camera proceedings and transferred the case to the ATC Rawalpindi. The latest decision to resume the trial within the jail comes after a comprehensive review of the security situation, with officials citing the need for transparent and secure court proceedings.

Prosecutor Zaheer Shah confirmed the withdrawal of the previous notification, stating that the session will commence tomorrow morning. During the proceedings, the prosecution is set to record the statements of three witnesses: DSP Mirza Javed, Inspector Yaqoob Shah, and Inspector Nazim Hussain Shah. Mr. Khan and the other accused will be presented before the special court established inside Adiala Jail.

Meanwhile, this restoration coincides with a move by the Islamabad High Court, which a day earlier formed a three-member commission. The commission is tasked with reviewing the circumstances surrounding the trial, assessing challenges faced by the former prime minister’s legal team, and ensuring compliance with the court’s prior directives for a fair trial.