PTM denounces release of Rao Anwar on bail

–PTM to move high court against ATC verdict following consultations with Naqeeb’s father

PESHAWAR: Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) has denounced the anti-terrorism court (ATC) decision that allowed notorious encounter specialist Rao Anwar to obtain his freedom on bail in the Naqeebullah Mehsud murder case on Tuesday.

In a PTM Core Committee meeting chaired by Manzoor Pashteen in Peshawar, the nationalist movement termed the verdict contrary to justice and decided to agitate against it.

“Rao Anwar was not only involved in the murder of Naqeeb but was also charged for killing around 444 innocent persons in fake police encounters,” the PTM lamented.

Besides the bail of Rao Anwar, the PTM meeting also discussed the recent detention of Hayat Preghal from his home in Dera Ismael Khan, and termination of dialogue with the government-constituted Jirga.

Speaking to Pakistan Today, Advocate Fazal Khan said the PTM will go on countrywide strike from Wednesday and it will also hold a public meeting on July 15 in Dera Ismael Khan.

Commenting on the termination of dialogue with the government, he said the PTM was forced to pull out from the dialogue process as the government continued its crackdown against the Pashteen-led movement despite its promises.

“We are not surprised by the court decision as Rao Anwar already was enjoying a VIP protocol,” he said, adding the PTM, after consulting the father of Naqeebullah, will challenge the decision in the Sindh High Court.

Through such a decision, the court confirmed its helpless before all those who are involved in fake police encounters and misuse of their official positions, the activist added.

Former senator and ex-central secretary general of Awami National Party (ANP) Afrasiab Khattak also denounced the decision, saying, “ATC decision in Rao Anwar bail and SC decision in former military dictator Pervez Musharraf has confirmed that judiciary is not independent, but following dictations.”