Pakistan government is considering to initiate legal proceedings to declare former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party a banned outfit, local media reported.

His remarks came after police claimed to have seized weapons and petrol bombs from the former premier's residence in Lahore

Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah on Saturday said that the legal team of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was examining the matter.&nbsp;He, however, clarified that the prerogative to officially ban a political party lies with the judiciary.

“Terrorists were hiding in Zaman Park. Weapons, petrol bombs, etc have been recovered from the residence of Imran Khan which is enough evidence to file a case against the PTI for being a militant organisation,” Sanaullah was quoted as saying.

On the government’s plan to initiate the process to ban Khan’s party, the minister said: “Primarily it is a judicial process to declare any party proscribed. However, we will consult our legal team on the issue.”

The push to declare Khan’s party a “militant organisation” came from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s niece Maryam Nawaz, who is also the senior vice president of the PML-N party.

<h2>Pakistan: Terror tag for Imran Khan's PTI?; Govt mulls move to ban Imran's party&nbsp;</h2>

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Prime Minister Sharif agreed with the assertion and tweeted, “If anyone had any doubt, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman Imran Niazi’s antics of the last few days laid bare his fascist and militant tendencies.”

Meanwhile, an Islamabad court delayed the arrest warrant of Khan in the Toshakhana until March 30.

He was allowed to go back after marking attendance outside the Islamabad Judicial Complex on Saturday.

Speaking to the news agency AFP, one of Khan's lawyers said, "The court has cancelled the arrest warrant after marking Imran Khan's attendance. The hearing has been adjourned till March 30."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-updates-ex-pak-pms-indictment-in-toshakhana-case-delayed-until-march-30-573406">Imran Khan updates: Ex-Pak PM's indictment in Toshakhana case delayed until March 30</a>

Earlier in the day, the Punjab police launched a surprise search operation at Imran's residence – hours after he left to appear before a local court in Islamabad – and arrested several party workers.

Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Lahore himself monitored the operation as the police used heavy machinery to break down the gate of PTI chief Imran Khan's residence.

Police were accompanied by water cannons, bulldozers, and a prisoner van. They soon demolished PTI camps in the area with the help of cranes and removed barriers and containers.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Pakistan government is considering to initiate legal proceedings to declare former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party a banned outfit, local media reported.

Pakistan government is considering to initiate legal proceedings to declare former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party a banned outfit, local media reported. His remarks came after police claimed to have seized weapons and petrol bombs from the former premier's residence in Lahore Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah on Saturday said that the legal team of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was examining the matter. He, however, clarified that the prerogative to officially ban a political party lies with the judiciary. “Terrorists were hiding in Zaman Park. Weapons, petrol bombs, etc have been recovered from the residence of Imran Khan which is enough evidence to file a case against the PTI for being a militant organisation,” Sanaullah was quoted as saying. On the government’s plan to initiate the process to ban Khan’s party, the minister said: “Primarily it is a judicial process to declare any party proscribed. However, we will consult our legal team on the issue.” The push to declare Khan’s party a “militant organisation” came from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s niece Maryam Nawaz, who is also the senior vice president of the PML-N party. Pakistan: Terror tag for Imran Khan's PTI?; Govt mulls move to ban Imran's party Prime Minister Sharif agreed with the assertion and tweeted, “If anyone had any doubt, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman Imran Niazi’s antics of the last few days laid bare his fascist and militant tendencies.” Meanwhile, an Islamabad court delayed the arrest warrant of Khan in the Toshakhana until March 30. He was allowed to go back after marking attendance outside the Islamabad Judicial Complex on Saturday. Speaking to the news agency AFP, one of Khan's lawyers said, "The court has cancelled the arrest warrant after marking Imran Khan's attendance. The hearing has been adjourned till March 30." Also read | Imran Khan updates: Ex-Pak PM's indictment in Toshakhana case delayed until March 30 Earlier in the day, the Punjab police launched a surprise search operation at Imran's residence – hours after he left to appear before a local court in Islamabad – and arrested several party workers. Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Lahore himself monitored the operation as the police used heavy machinery to break down the gate of PTI chief Imran Khan's residence. Police were accompanied by water cannons, bulldozers, and a prisoner van. They soon demolished PTI camps in the area with the help of cranes and removed barriers and containers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan govt mulling legal options to declare Imran Khan’s PTI party a ‘proscribed’ outfit

The question that a lot of people are now asking is well the former prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan now got arrested, what is next for him as the court proceedings are presently underway. Here are some dramatic scenes that actually happened when the pro Imran Khan protesters clenched with the police.

Toshakhana Case: Khan denies wrongdoings

From Islamabad to Washington, there are allegations against top leaders of official gifts they received when they were in power. While Imran Khan is fighting Toshakhana case in Pakistani court, in the United States, claims have now been made against former President Donald Trump.

Democrats accuse Trump of violating gift law, says 'he failed to report foreign gifts'

Imran Khan is all set to show up in court. The decision defuses a volatile stand-off between Khan's supporters & security forces, who have tried to arrest him for evading the legal proceedings. Khan's decision came after the High Court in the capital Islamabad cancelled an arrest warrant. The court had issued the warrant after the former pm repeatedly failed to attend hearings.

'Nawaz Sharif wants me jailed so I can't take part in elections,' says Imran Khan

Khan is facing charges that he unlawfully sold state gifts given to him by foreign dignitaries when he was pm, from 2018 to 2022. The election commission had found him guilty & barred him from holding public office for one parliamentary term. Khan denies the charges. Attempts by the security forces to arrest khan triggered pitched battles with his supporters earlier this week.

Police enter Imran Khan's residence; Former Pakistan Prime Minister all set to show up in court

Imran Khan to appear in court, defusing volatile stand-off between supporters and police

An Islamabad court issued a non-bailable arrest warrant against the former Pakistan prime minister in the Toshakhana case. This, as the PTI chief got bail in two other cases related to prohibited funding and terror. WION decodes Imran Khan's Toshakhana case in this report.

Decoding former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's Toshakhana troubles | WION Dispatch

Clashes erupted between supporters and activists of Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and police who had arrived at the former prime minister’s house in Lahore on Tuesday (March 14) to arrest him.

Hundreds of supporters had gathered outside his Zaman Park residence in support of Imran Khan. The police were there to arrest him on a court order in a corruption case.

Several were injured on&nbsp;both sides after Islamabad police sprayed water cannons and tear gas on PTI supporters who, in response, pelted stones at the cops outside Khan’s residence.

Live TV footage showed PTI supporters also using sling-shots and attacking the police with sticks.

Amidst the ruckus outside his house, Khan released a video on his official Twitter handle asking the people to fight for their rights even if he is jailed or killed, while urging his supporters to hit the streets as the police moved to arrest him.

<h2>Shelling outside PTI chief Imran Khan's Zaman Park residence | WION Dispatch</h2>

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"The police have arrived to arrest me. They think that if Imran Khan goes to jail, the people will go to sleep. You have to prove them wrong, you have to prove that the qaum (people) is alive."

"You have to fight for your rights, you have to hit the streets. God has given Imran Khan everything. I am fighting your battle. I have fought all my life and will continue to do so. But if something happens to me, they put me in jail or kill me, you have to prove that you can fight even without Imran Khan. You have to prove that you will never accept this slavery and this rule by one man. Pakistan zindabad [long live Pakistan]," he said.

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My message to the nation to stand resolute and fight for Haqeeqi Azadi &amp; rule of law. <a href="https://t.co/bgVuOjsmHG">pic.twitter.com/bgVuOjsmHG</a>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1635618764589879297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The former premier is accused of concealing, in his asset declarations, details of the gifts he retained from the Toshakhana — the treasury where presents given to government officials from foreign officials are kept. The case is known as the Toshakhana case.

Khan is accused of pocketing $36 million from selling three watches gifted to him. It is alleged that he never deposited some gifts in the treasury, violating the rule as a prime minister is allowed to retain the gifts only after paying a certain amount.

Last year in October, Pakistan's election commission found the cricketer-turned-politician guilty of unlawfully selling gifts received from foreign dignitaries.

The Federal Investigation Agency then filed charges against him in an anti-corruption court, which last week issued the arrest warrant against Khan as he had skipped summons to appear in court.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Clashes erupted between supporters and activists of Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and police who had arrived at the former prime minister’s house in Lahore on Tuesday (March 14) to arrest him.

Clashes erupted between supporters and activists of Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and police who had arrived at the former prime minister’s house in Lahore on Tuesday (March 14) to arrest him. Hundreds of supporters had gathered outside his Zaman Park residence in support of Imran Khan. The police were there to arrest him on a court order in a corruption case. Several were injured on both sides after Islamabad police sprayed water cannons and tear gas on PTI supporters who, in response, pelted stones at the cops outside Khan’s residence. Live TV footage showed PTI supporters also using sling-shots and attacking the police with sticks. Amidst the ruckus outside his house, Khan released a video on his official Twitter handle asking the people to fight for their rights even if he is jailed or killed, while urging his supporters to hit the streets as the police moved to arrest him. Shelling outside PTI chief Imran Khan's Zaman Park residence | WION Dispatch "The police have arrived to arrest me. They think that if Imran Khan goes to jail, the people will go to sleep. You have to prove them wrong, you have to prove that the qaum (people) is alive." "You have to fight for your rights, you have to hit the streets. God has given Imran Khan everything. I am fighting your battle. I have fought all my life and will continue to do so. But if something happens to me, they put me in jail or kill me, you have to prove that you can fight even without Imran Khan. You have to prove that you will never accept this slavery and this rule by one man. Pakistan zindabad [long live Pakistan]," he said. My message to the nation to stand resolute and fight for Haqeeqi Azadi & rule of law. pic.twitter.com/bgVuOjsmHG — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 14, 2023 × The former premier is accused of concealing, in his asset declarations, details of the gifts he retained from the Toshakhana — the treasury where presents given to government officials from foreign officials are kept. The case is known as the Toshakhana case. Khan is accused of pocketing $36 million from selling three watches gifted to him. It is alleged that he never deposited some gifts in the treasury, violating the rule as a prime minister is allowed to retain the gifts only after paying a certain amount. Last year in October, Pakistan's election commission found the cricketer-turned-politician guilty of unlawfully selling gifts received from foreign dignitaries. The Federal Investigation Agency then filed charges against him in an anti-corruption court, which last week issued the arrest warrant against Khan as he had skipped summons to appear in court. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Toshakhana case: Police, PTI workers clash outside ex-PM Imran Khan’s house ahead of possible arrest

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has signed a bond to appear in court. Yesterday, Police and supporters of Imran Khan fought pitched battles when the police came to arrest him. Imran Khan's party, the PTI, said that Khan had signed a surety bond to appear in court on march 18.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan signs bond to appear in court on March 18 | Details

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has signed a bond to appear in court. Yesterday, Police and supporters of Imran Khan fought pitched battles when the police came to arrest him. Imran Khan's party, the PTI, said that Khan had signed a surety bond to appear in court on march 18. In a video message, Khan said a lawyer tried to deliver the bond to the senior police officer who was to arrest him. The Toshakhana case relates to gifts that Imran Khan received from foreign states, which he allegedly bought at cheaper rates and sold at hefty prices when he was Prime Minister.

Pakistan Ex-PM Imran Khan flags Sharifs' 'London Plan'

The Pakistan government has banned giving Toshakhana presents valued over $300 to elected officials, including the president, prime minister and cabinet members. The updated guidelines also restricted judges, as well as civil and military leaders from accepting gifts that cost more than $300.&nbsp;

A fresh set of guidelines has been introduced according to the latest "Toshakhana Procedure for the Acceptance and Disposal of Gifts, 2023", which is dated March 8. The government released the guidelines alongside the Toshakhana records of 2002 onwards.&nbsp;

While mentioning the cap, the official memo stated that the recipient should collect the gifts valued up to $300 after payment of the retention price within thirty days of the receipt of any communication in this regard by the Cabinet Division.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-court-suspends-arrest-warrant-against-ex-pm-imran-khan-till-march-16-571882">Islamabad court suspends arrest warrant against ex-PM Imran Khan in judge threat case</a>&nbsp;

It further mentioned that in case the person failed then, it would become the property of the Toshakhana and will be disposed of as per Toshakhana Rules.&nbsp;

The Toshakhana department was established in 1974 under the administrative control of the Cabinet Division. The main objective of the department is to keep gifts which are received by members of parliament, ministers, foreign secretaries, the president, and the prime minister.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Police vehicles gather outside Imran Khan's Lahore residence&nbsp;

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The official memo read: "Gift(s) valuing upto USD 300 shall be allowed to be retained by the recipient after due payments as per its assessed market value. The gift(s) exceeding this monetory (sic) limit shall straightaway become state/Toshakhana property to be deposited and disposed of according to Toshakhana Procedure."&nbsp;

It also stated that "the government/public functionaries, except those in BPS 1 to BPS 4 are prohibited from receiving cash awards offered by the visiting foreign dignitaries."&nbsp;

The memorandum mentioned that such gifts may be "politely refused" and in case, it becomes impossible to refuse without causing offence to the visiting dignitary, "the amount shall be immediately deposited in the government treasury and a copy of Treasury Challan shall be provided to the Toshakhana Incharge, Cabinet Division".&nbsp;

The news development comes amid proceedings against ousted prime minister Imran Khan for "not sharing details" of Toshakhana gifts.&nbsp;

Two non-bailable arrest warrants were issued for Khan on Monday after he failed to appear in courts in cases linked to the Toshakhana reference and threats that had been issued to a female judge.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Pakistan government has banned giving Toshakhana presents valued over $300 to elected officials, including the president, prime minister and cabinet members.

The Pakistan government has banned giving Toshakhana presents valued over $300 to elected officials, including the president, prime minister and cabinet members. The updated guidelines also restricted judges, as well as civil and military leaders from accepting gifts that cost more than $300. A fresh set of guidelines has been introduced according to the latest "Toshakhana Procedure for the Acceptance and Disposal of Gifts, 2023", which is dated March 8. The government released the guidelines alongside the Toshakhana records of 2002 onwards. While mentioning the cap, the official memo stated that the recipient should collect the gifts valued up to $300 after payment of the retention price within thirty days of the receipt of any communication in this regard by the Cabinet Division. ALSO READ | Islamabad court suspends arrest warrant against ex-PM Imran Khan in judge threat case It further mentioned that in case the person failed then, it would become the property of the Toshakhana and will be disposed of as per Toshakhana Rules. The Toshakhana department was established in 1974 under the administrative control of the Cabinet Division. The main objective of the department is to keep gifts which are received by members of parliament, ministers, foreign secretaries, the president, and the prime minister. WATCH | Police vehicles gather outside Imran Khan's Lahore residence × The official memo read: "Gift(s) valuing upto USD 300 shall be allowed to be retained by the recipient after due payments as per its assessed market value. The gift(s) exceeding this monetory (sic) limit shall straightaway become state/Toshakhana property to be deposited and disposed of according to Toshakhana Procedure." It also stated that "the government/public functionaries, except those in BPS 1 to BPS 4 are prohibited from receiving cash awards offered by the visiting foreign dignitaries." The memorandum mentioned that such gifts may be "politely refused" and in case, it becomes impossible to refuse without causing offence to the visiting dignitary, "the amount shall be immediately deposited in the government treasury and a copy of Treasury Challan shall be provided to the Toshakhana Incharge, Cabinet Division". The news development comes amid proceedings against ousted prime minister Imran Khan for "not sharing details" of Toshakhana gifts. Two non-bailable arrest warrants were issued for Khan on Monday after he failed to appear in courts in cases linked to the Toshakhana reference and threats that had been issued to a female judge. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Toshakhana policy: Pakistan bans PM, president, judges from receiving gifts valued over $300

Toshakhana gifts have long been a controversial topic in Pakistani politics. In a historic first on Sunday, the Pakistan government made public the records of Toshakhana or Pakistan's treasury, where gifts received by state officials are deposited.&nbsp;

Many senior state officials have allegedly taken home expensive presents that they receive from foreign dignitaries by paying a little amount and later selling them in the open market for a big premium, and keeping the profit.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-oil-giant-aramco-reports-record-profit-of-1611-billion-in-2022-571141">Saudi oil giant Aramco reports record profit of $161.1 billion in 2022</a>

A few days ago, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the federal government had agreed not to declassify the information from the state repository.&nbsp;

The document's 446 pages provide records for the years 2002 through 2023. The list of presents that presidents, prime ministers, and federal ministers have received is made public. The current coalition government got 59 presents from various nations during the year 2023.

Government records show that 224 gifts were received in 2022, 116 in 2021, 175 in 2018, 91 in 2014, and 177 in 2015.&nbsp;

The document contains records of presents kept by former prime ministers Shaukat Aziz, Nawaz Sharif, Yusuf Raza Gilani, Imran Khan and Raja Parvez Ashraf, as well as late former president General Parvez Musharraf.

According to the records, Imran Khan spent Rs 85 million on a diamond and gold watch, Rs 5.67 million on a pair of cufflinks, Rs 1.5 million on a pen, and Rs 8.7 million on a ring. The previous premier paid almost Rs 20 million to keep all the presents. In addition, the PTI leader paid Rs. 754,000 to keep a watch worth Rs 3.88 million.

In recent days, Toshakhana gifts have caught the imagination of a normal Pakistani as the country's former prime minister Imran Khan, who still has a lot of clout among the general public, evaded arrest in the case related to these gifts.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-prime-minister-narendra-modi-to-visit-us-in-june-engagement-with-india-to-counter-china-571114">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit U.S. in June; engagement with India to counter China</a>

Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), in its verdict in the Toshakhana case against former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, had disqualified him from the country's National Assembly. The electoral body gave its verdict saying Imran made "false statements and incorrect declaration" regarding the Toshakhana gifts.

A criminal case that was submitted by the Election Commission of Pakistan&nbsp;is being heard at the federal capital's Districts and Sessions Court.&nbsp;

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Toshakhana gifts have long been a controversial topic in Pakistani politics. In a historic first on Sunday, the Pakistan government made public the records of Toshakhana or Pakistan's treasury, where gifts received by state officials are deposited.

Toshakhana gifts have long been a controversial topic in Pakistani politics. In a historic first on Sunday, the Pakistan government made public the records of Toshakhana or Pakistan's treasury, where gifts received by state officials are deposited. Many senior state officials have allegedly taken home expensive presents that they receive from foreign dignitaries by paying a little amount and later selling them in the open market for a big premium, and keeping the profit. Also Read | Saudi oil giant Aramco reports record profit of $161.1 billion in 2022 A few days ago, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the federal government had agreed not to declassify the information from the state repository. The document's 446 pages provide records for the years 2002 through 2023. The list of presents that presidents, prime ministers, and federal ministers have received is made public. The current coalition government got 59 presents from various nations during the year 2023. Government records show that 224 gifts were received in 2022, 116 in 2021, 175 in 2018, 91 in 2014, and 177 in 2015. The document contains records of presents kept by former prime ministers Shaukat Aziz, Nawaz Sharif, Yusuf Raza Gilani, Imran Khan and Raja Parvez Ashraf, as well as late former president General Parvez Musharraf. According to the records, Imran Khan spent Rs 85 million on a diamond and gold watch, Rs 5.67 million on a pair of cufflinks, Rs 1.5 million on a pen, and Rs 8.7 million on a ring. The previous premier paid almost Rs 20 million to keep all the presents. In addition, the PTI leader paid Rs. 754,000 to keep a watch worth Rs 3.88 million. In recent days, Toshakhana gifts have caught the imagination of a normal Pakistani as the country's former prime minister Imran Khan, who still has a lot of clout among the general public, evaded arrest in the case related to these gifts. WATCH | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit U.S. in June; engagement with India to counter China Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), in its verdict in the Toshakhana case against former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, had disqualified him from the country's National Assembly. The electoral body gave its verdict saying Imran made "false statements and incorrect declaration" regarding the Toshakhana gifts. A criminal case that was submitted by the Election Commission of Pakistan is being heard at the federal capital's Districts and Sessions Court. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In a historic first, Pakistan releases Toshakhana gifts records

A court in Pakistan's capital Islamabad has rejected a plea filed by former prime minister Imran Khan seeking suspension of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case.

Additional Session judge Zafar Iqbal announced the verdict on Monday, asking&nbsp;Khan’s lawyers to approach the high court, Geo News reported.

On Sunday, an NBW was issued against the former premier after he allegedly failed to appear in court, which was hearing the case.

On Monday, Khan’s representatives argued that his client has always followed court orders, adding that the police could not arrest the 70-year-old leader if he was willing to appear before the court on March 7.

At this, the judge responded that he could have approached the Islamabad High Court to suspend the warrant.

<h2>Imran Khan accused of spreading 'hatred' against state institutions, speeches banned</h2>

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But Khan’s lawyers asked the sessions court to suspend the warrant, adding that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief was at his Zaman Park residence in Lahore.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-evading-cops-who-came-to-arrest-him-imran-khan-delivers-a-defiant-speech-568838">After evading cops who came to arrest him, Imran Khan delivers a&nbsp;defiant&nbsp;speech</a>

“Imran Khan wants to know a way he can appear in court,” Bukhari said during the hearing.

The judge, remarking that the PTI chief’s lawyer had informed him that their client would not appear in court, reserved the verdict on the petition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-wifes-friends-wealth-increased-fourfold-during-his-administration-report-569014">Wealth of Imran Khan's wife's friend rose four times during his tenure: Report</a>

There was huge drama outside Khan's residence as party leaders and workers gathered outside in large numbers and raised slogans in their leader's support and criticised the Shehbaz Sharif government.&nbsp;The PTI party workers surrounded the residence to prevent the arrest.&nbsp;

Imran Khan has skipped hearings in the Toshakhana case thrice till now in which he was to be indicted for allegedly concealing details of the gifts he retained from the repository where presents given to government officials are deposited, said a Dawn report.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A court in Pakistan's capital Islamabad has rejected a plea filed by former prime minister Imran Khan seeking suspension of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case.

A court in Pakistan's capital Islamabad has rejected a plea filed by former prime minister Imran Khan seeking suspension of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case. Additional Session judge Zafar Iqbal announced the verdict on Monday, asking Khan’s lawyers to approach the high court, Geo News reported. On Sunday, an NBW was issued against the former premier after he allegedly failed to appear in court, which was hearing the case. On Monday, Khan’s representatives argued that his client has always followed court orders, adding that the police could not arrest the 70-year-old leader if he was willing to appear before the court on March 7. At this, the judge responded that he could have approached the Islamabad High Court to suspend the warrant. Imran Khan accused of spreading 'hatred' against state institutions, speeches banned But Khan’s lawyers asked the sessions court to suspend the warrant, adding that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief was at his Zaman Park residence in Lahore. Also read | After evading cops who came to arrest him, Imran Khan delivers a defiant speech “Imran Khan wants to know a way he can appear in court,” Bukhari said during the hearing. The judge, remarking that the PTI chief’s lawyer had informed him that their client would not appear in court, reserved the verdict on the petition. Also read | Wealth of Imran Khan's wife's friend rose four times during his tenure: Report There was huge drama outside Khan's residence as party leaders and workers gathered outside in large numbers and raised slogans in their leader's support and criticised the Shehbaz Sharif government. The PTI party workers surrounded the residence to prevent the arrest. Imran Khan has skipped hearings in the Toshakhana case thrice till now in which he was to be indicted for allegedly concealing details of the gifts he retained from the repository where presents given to government officials are deposited, said a Dawn report. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Islamabad court rejects Pak ex-PM Imran Khan's plea to suspend arrest warrant in Toshakhana case

Former prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan delivered a defiant speech after giving the police a miss at his residence. A team of Islamabad Police had reached his Zaman Park&nbsp;house in Lahore on Sunday afternoon in order to arrest him in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case. 
 
The representatives of the former premier of Pakistan received the notice served by the police on his behalf while saying that he was not available at home and assuring that he "will comply with the legal process". A non-bailable warrant has been issued against Imran Khan.

When the&nbsp;police team left, Khan delivered a defiant speech at Zaman Park home&nbsp;and slammed his political opponents before his supporters.

Watch | Non-bailable warrant issued against former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan sparks protests

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Addressing a sizeable&nbsp;crowd of PTI loyalists, Imran said he had never “bowed before any man or institution, and will never let you do so as well”.

Khan said “only a nation, and not a group” could confront the challenges being faced by the country.

Slamming the Shehbaz Sharif government, the PTI leader said it was the “worst time” for the country as the economy had “sunk” and the people were being crushed by “record high inflation in Pakistan’s history”.

He lashed out at them, alleging that they had stashed their wealth overseas and former army chief Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa had given them protection in the legal cases.

"I want everybody to know about the Toshakhana cases. The real robbers have been taken off the cases," said Imran. He claimed that his life was in danger. He said that his political opponents are the present government in Pakistan and were making him run "from one court to another" on "minor cases".

He rued the present state of affairs in the country and said that 'Jail bharo' (fill the jails) campaign was one of the ways to express anger against the present government.

"Only people of Pakistan can challenge the corrupt establishment," he said.

Pakistan's economy is in extremely bad condition right now,&nbsp;Imran Khan said and criticised PM Shehbaz Sharif, holding him responsible for the poor state of affairs.

"PM is asking for money everywhere...and people are not giving him...Today, Pakistan is being insulted worldwide...thieves are sitting at the top," he said.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has imposed a prohibition on broadcast or rebroadcast of Imran Khan's speech with immediate effect. The ban also extends to Khan's other press talks, whether live or recorded.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan delivered a defiant speech after giving the police a miss at his residence. A team of Islamabad Police had reached his Zaman Park house in Lahore on Sunday afternoon in order to arrest him in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case.

Former prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan delivered a defiant speech after giving the police a miss at his residence. A team of Islamabad Police had reached his Zaman Park house in Lahore on Sunday afternoon in order to arrest him in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case. The representatives of the former premier of Pakistan received the notice served by the police on his behalf while saying that he was not available at home and assuring that he "will comply with the legal process". A non-bailable warrant has been issued against Imran Khan. When the police team left, Khan delivered a defiant speech at Zaman Park home and slammed his political opponents before his supporters. Watch | Non-bailable warrant issued against former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan sparks protests × Addressing a sizeable crowd of PTI loyalists, Imran said he had never “bowed before any man or institution, and will never let you do so as well”. Khan said “only a nation, and not a group” could confront the challenges being faced by the country. Slamming the Shehbaz Sharif government, the PTI leader said it was the “worst time” for the country as the economy had “sunk” and the people were being crushed by “record high inflation in Pakistan’s history”. He lashed out at them, alleging that they had stashed their wealth overseas and former army chief Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa had given them protection in the legal cases. "I want everybody to know about the Toshakhana cases. The real robbers have been taken off the cases," said Imran. He claimed that his life was in danger. He said that his political opponents are the present government in Pakistan and were making him run "from one court to another" on "minor cases". He rued the present state of affairs in the country and said that 'Jail bharo' (fill the jails) campaign was one of the ways to express anger against the present government. "Only people of Pakistan can challenge the corrupt establishment," he said. Pakistan's economy is in extremely bad condition right now, Imran Khan said and criticised PM Shehbaz Sharif, holding him responsible for the poor state of affairs. "PM is asking for money everywhere...and people are not giving him...Today, Pakistan is being insulted worldwide...thieves are sitting at the top," he said. Meanwhile, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has imposed a prohibition on broadcast or rebroadcast of Imran Khan's speech with immediate effect. The ban also extends to Khan's other press talks, whether live or recorded. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

After evading cops who came to arrest him, Imran Khan delivers a defiant speech

The Islamabad Police on Sunday arrived at Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan’s Zaman Park residence in Lahore to arrest him after he failed to appear in the court in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case.&nbsp;Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf &nbsp;(PTI) party has threatened mass protests if&nbsp;Khan is arrested.&nbsp;

A team of Islamabad Police reached Lahore after receiving relevant orders from the high court.

According to Geo News, Khan was not present at his house when the police arrived. Reports say that the former premier will be taken to Islamabad in&nbsp;custody.

The police were acting on a non-bailable arrest warrant issued on February 28 by additional sessions judge Zafar Iqbal against the former PM.

Talking to the media outside Khan’s Zaman Park residence, an Islamabad police officer that they were given a go-ahead by the superintendent of police (SP).

"We are being assisted by the Lahore police," said the Islamabad police officer, reports Geo News.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf &nbsp;(PTI) party senior vice president Fawad Chaudhry warned of a worsening situation in the country if the government moves against the former prime minister.

<h2>Imran Khan sold valuable Toshakhana gifts in Dubai, alleges Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif</h2>

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"Any attempt to arrest Imran Khan will seriously worsen the situation, I want to warn this incompetent and anti-Pakistan government not to push Pakistan into further crisis and act sensibly," Fawad tweeted. 
 
There was huge drama outside Khan's residence as party leaders and workers gathered outside in huge numbers and raised slogans in their leader's support and criticising the Shehbaz Sharif government.&nbsp;The PTI party workers surrounded the residence to prevent the arrest.&nbsp;

Reacting to his arrest, Khan&nbsp;levelled massive allegations against Prime Minister Shehbaz Shariff and former army chief General Qamar Bajwa.

"What future can a country have when crooks are thrust as rulers upon it? SS was about to be convicted by NAB for&nbsp;Rs 8 bn money laundering &amp; by FIA for another&nbsp;Rs 16 bn corruption when he was rescued by Gen Bajwa who kept getting NAB cases trial postponed."

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What future can a country have when crooks are thrust as rulers upon it? SS was about to be convicted by NAB for Rs 8 bn money laundering &amp; by FIA for another Rs 16 bn corruption when he was rescued by Gen Bajwa who kept getting NAB cases trial postponed. While under trial he was
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1632306793886916608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"While under trial he was made PM. He has since proceeded to select heads of those institutions investigating his cases - first FIA &amp; now NAB - simply to get his name permanently cleared in&nbsp;₹16 bn corruption &amp;&nbsp;₹8 bn money laundering cases against him. This is how a country becomes a banana republic," Khan said. 
 
Imran Khan has skipped hearings in the Toshakhana case thrice till now in which he was to be indicted for allegedly concealing details of the gifts he retained from the repository where presents given to government officials are deposited, said a Dawn report.

Meanwhile, in a series of tweets, the Islamabad Police said that the operation was being conducted with the cooperation of the Lahore police.

It stated that the PTI chief was “avoiding” the arrest, adding that the superintendent of police had “gone into Imran’s room but he was not present there”. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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The Islamabad Police on Sunday arrived at Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan’s Zaman Park residence in Lahore to arrest him after he failed to appear in the court in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case.

The Islamabad Police on Sunday arrived at Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan’s Zaman Park residence in Lahore to arrest him after he failed to appear in the court in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has threatened mass protests if Khan is arrested. A team of Islamabad Police reached Lahore after receiving relevant orders from the high court. According to Geo News, Khan was not present at his house when the police arrived. Reports say that the former premier will be taken to Islamabad in custody. The police were acting on a non-bailable arrest warrant issued on February 28 by additional sessions judge Zafar Iqbal against the former PM. Talking to the media outside Khan’s Zaman Park residence, an Islamabad police officer that they were given a go-ahead by the superintendent of police (SP). "We are being assisted by the Lahore police," said the Islamabad police officer, reports Geo News. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party senior vice president Fawad Chaudhry warned of a worsening situation in the country if the government moves against the former prime minister. Imran Khan sold valuable Toshakhana gifts in Dubai, alleges Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif "Any attempt to arrest Imran Khan will seriously worsen the situation, I want to warn this incompetent and anti-Pakistan government not to push Pakistan into further crisis and act sensibly," Fawad tweeted. There was huge drama outside Khan's residence as party leaders and workers gathered outside in huge numbers and raised slogans in their leader's support and criticising the Shehbaz Sharif government. The PTI party workers surrounded the residence to prevent the arrest. Reacting to his arrest, Khan levelled massive allegations against Prime Minister Shehbaz Shariff and former army chief General Qamar Bajwa. "What future can a country have when crooks are thrust as rulers upon it? SS was about to be convicted by NAB for Rs 8 bn money laundering & by FIA for another Rs 16 bn corruption when he was rescued by Gen Bajwa who kept getting NAB cases trial postponed." What future can a country have when crooks are thrust as rulers upon it? SS was about to be convicted by NAB for Rs 8 bn money laundering & by FIA for another Rs 16 bn corruption when he was rescued by Gen Bajwa who kept getting NAB cases trial postponed. While under trial he was — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 5, 2023 × "While under trial he was made PM. He has since proceeded to select heads of those institutions investigating his cases - first FIA & now NAB - simply to get his name permanently cleared in ₹16 bn corruption & ₹8 bn money laundering cases against him. This is how a country becomes a banana republic," Khan said. Imran Khan has skipped hearings in the Toshakhana case thrice till now in which he was to be indicted for allegedly concealing details of the gifts he retained from the repository where presents given to government officials are deposited, said a Dawn report. Meanwhile, in a series of tweets, the Islamabad Police said that the operation was being conducted with the cooperation of the Lahore police. It stated that the PTI chief was “avoiding” the arrest, adding that the superintendent of police had “gone into Imran’s room but he was not present there”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Islamabad police arrive at ex-Pak PM Imran Khan’s Lahore house to arrest him in Toshakhana case

A court in Pakistan’s Islamabad city will announce its verdict on whether to indict former prime minister Imran Khan in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case on February 7.

District and Sessions Judge Zafar Iqbal has fixed the indictment date on February 7 after hearing the closing arguments on Tuesday. The cricketer-turned-politician was also ordered to pay a bond of 20,000 Pakistani rupees, reports Express Tribune newspaper.

In October, Khan was disqualified from his National Assembly seat last under Article 63(1)(p) by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) over&nbsp;allegations that he had lied to officials about the gifts he had received from foreign dignitaries while serving as Pakistan's prime minister.

After months of denial, Khan on September 8 admitted in a written reply that he sold at least four presents he had received during his tenure as the prime minister.

Toshakhana is a department under the administrative control of Pakistan's Cabinet Division. Established in 1974, it stores precious presents that foreign dignitaries and heads of other governments and nations have given to rulers, lawmakers, bureaucrats, and officials of the country.

Officials on whom these rules apply according to Toshakhana guidelines are required to disclose to the Cabinet Division any gifts, presents, and other similar materials they receive.

Government officials are supposed to declare all gifts but can keep only those below a certain value.

More expensive items must go to Toshakhana, but in some cases, the recipient can repurchase them at around 50 per cent of their value. Imran raised this discount from 20 per cent while in office.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A court in Pakistan’s Islamabad city will announce its verdict on whether to indict former prime minister Imran Khan in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case on February 7.

A court in Pakistan’s Islamabad city will announce its verdict on whether to indict former prime minister Imran Khan in the Toshakhana (gift depository) case on February 7. District and Sessions Judge Zafar Iqbal has fixed the indictment date on February 7 after hearing the closing arguments on Tuesday. The cricketer-turned-politician was also ordered to pay a bond of 20,000 Pakistani rupees, reports Express Tribune newspaper. In October, Khan was disqualified from his National Assembly seat last under Article 63(1)(p) by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) over allegations that he had lied to officials about the gifts he had received from foreign dignitaries while serving as Pakistan's prime minister. After months of denial, Khan on September 8 admitted in a written reply that he sold at least four presents he had received during his tenure as the prime minister. Toshakhana is a department under the administrative control of Pakistan's Cabinet Division. Established in 1974, it stores precious presents that foreign dignitaries and heads of other governments and nations have given to rulers, lawmakers, bureaucrats, and officials of the country. Officials on whom these rules apply according to Toshakhana guidelines are required to disclose to the Cabinet Division any gifts, presents, and other similar materials they receive. Government officials are supposed to declare all gifts but can keep only those below a certain value. More expensive items must go to Toshakhana, but in some cases, the recipient can repurchase them at around 50 per cent of their value. Imran raised this discount from 20 per cent while in office. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistani court to indict former PM Imran Khan in Toshakhana case on Feb 7

Former Pakistan Prime Minister on Friday denied the accusations that he illegally sold items gifted to him by Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed Bin Salman for over $2 million. Khan has been accused of corruption and illegally selling an antique watch, gold pen, ring, and cufflings&nbsp;for $2 million. The gifts were&nbsp;given to him by the Saudi leader when Khan was visiting Riyadh in 2019.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-dubai-based-businessman-claims-to-have-bought-imran-khans-state-gifts-534820">WION Dispatch: Dubai-based businessman claims to have bought Imran Khan's state gifts</a>

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Earlier this week on Tuesday, a Dubai-based businessman, Farooq Zahoor, claimed on a TV channel that he bought gifts in cash from Imran Khan's close friend in the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

Khan has emphatically denied the allegations. He said that it's part of a "conspiratorial campaign" to malign him through consistent attempts of "character assassination".

Toshakhana issue and Imran Khan's ouster from power

The sale of state gifts by Khan, known as the Toshakhana issue, became a major political scandal in Pakistan after the election commission of Pakistan disqualified and barred him from elections for five years. The Election Commission also&nbsp;accused him of “false statements and incorrect declarations” about gifts he received from foreign leaders while in power.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dubai-based-businessman-says-toshakhana-gifts-given-to-ex-pm-imran-khan-sold-to-him-534670">Toshakhana case: Dubai-based businessman says gifts given to ex-PM Imran Khan sold to him</a>

During the Mughal era, Toshakhana referred to the “treasure houses” kept by the Indian subcontinent’s princely rulers to store and display gifts they received during their reign. The name is now given to a government department where the gifts given to state officials are kept.

Khan has challenged the disqualification verdict in the Islamabad High Court.

Since Khan was ousted from power in April after a no-confidence vote, controversies have erupted over his alleged attempts&nbsp;to disrupt Pakistan's political processes. He has been rallying against the government and demanding elections. He was wounded in an assassination attempt on November 3 for which he accused the current Prime Minister, interior minister and a senior intelligence officer for attempt on his life.&nbsp;

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Former Pakistan Prime Minister on Friday denied the accusations that he illegally sold items gifted to him by Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed Bin Salman for over $2 million.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister on Friday denied the accusations that he illegally sold items gifted to him by Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed Bin Salman for over $2 million. Khan has been accused of corruption and illegally selling an antique watch, gold pen, ring, and cufflings for $2 million. The gifts were given to him by the Saudi leader when Khan was visiting Riyadh in 2019. WATCH | WION Dispatch: Dubai-based businessman claims to have bought Imran Khan's state gifts × Earlier this week on Tuesday, a Dubai-based businessman, Farooq Zahoor, claimed on a TV channel that he bought gifts in cash from Imran Khan's close friend in the United Arab Emirates. Khan has emphatically denied the allegations. He said that it's part of a "conspiratorial campaign" to malign him through consistent attempts of "character assassination". Toshakhana issue and Imran Khan's ouster from power The sale of state gifts by Khan, known as the Toshakhana issue, became a major political scandal in Pakistan after the election commission of Pakistan disqualified and barred him from elections for five years. The Election Commission also accused him of “false statements and incorrect declarations” about gifts he received from foreign leaders while in power. ALSO READ | Toshakhana case: Dubai-based businessman says gifts given to ex-PM Imran Khan sold to him During the Mughal era, Toshakhana referred to the “treasure houses” kept by the Indian subcontinent’s princely rulers to store and display gifts they received during their reign. The name is now given to a government department where the gifts given to state officials are kept. Khan has challenged the disqualification verdict in the Islamabad High Court. Since Khan was ousted from power in April after a no-confidence vote, controversies have erupted over his alleged attempts to disrupt Pakistan's political processes. He has been rallying against the government and demanding elections. He was wounded in an assassination attempt on November 3 for which he accused the current Prime Minister, interior minister and a senior intelligence officer for attempt on his life. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Imran Khan denies charge of illegally selling gifts from Saudi crown prince

According to an investigation carried out by Daily Pakistan, he claim made by the Dubai-based businessman Umar Farooq Zahoor about buying the ultra-expensive watch and other accessories for $2 million is bogus.

WION Dispatch | Toshakhana case: Pakistan publication calls Zahoor's claims 'bogus'

The whole Toshakhana row over the sale of state gifts received by Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan is getting murkier by each passing day.&nbsp;Now, according to a report by Dawn newspaper, a Dubai-based businessman has claimed that he was sold some of the state gifts, including an expensive Graff wristwatch gifted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman, to Imran Khan .

In an interview with TV channel Geo News, Umar Farooq Zahoor claimed that he bought the expensive watch for $2 million. At the time of sale in 2019, the watch was worth Rs 280 million.

According to Pakistan’s law, any gift received from dignitaries of a foreign state must be put in the state depository or the Toshakhana.

The Norwegian-Pakistani millionaire further claimed to have evidence of buying the watch and three other gifts from Farhat Shahzadi, also known as Farah Gogi, for 7.5 million Dirhams in cash.

Shahzadi is allegedly a friend of Bushra Bibi, the wife of Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan.

Zahoor claimed that he was reached out to by former accountability minister Shahzad Akbar over the purchase of these gifts.

<h2>Gravitas: Decoding Pakistan's 'Toshakhana' Gifts Controversy</h2>

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“In March 2019, former accountability minister Shahzad Akbar said that he had a set of watches and if I was interested, I should reach out to Farah [Khan] (a close aide of Imran’s wife Bushra Bibi) as she needed help and didn’t have any asset buyer,” Zahoor told Geo News.

The businessman claimed that he was later on blackmailed and fake cases of money laundering were registered against him by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) at the behest of Akbar after he refused to listen to the demands made by his former wife Sophia Mirza.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-barred-from-holding-public-office-by-pakistan-election-commission-527352">Imran Khan barred from running for public office for five years by Pakistan election commission</a>

However, Akbar, in a late-night tweet on Tuesday, denied having ever met Zahoor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ex-pm-imran-khan-claims-propaganda-cell-feeding-journalists-against-him-534103" hreflang="en">Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khan claims propaganda cell 'feeding journalists' against him</a>

“It is sad that they are using a person against Imran Khan, whose citizenship has been revoked by Norway due to his crimes, who is wanted by Interpol, who has committed fraud in various countries and who has smuggled his daughters to Dubai using forged documents,” he said.

The Toshakhana issue has become a major sticking point for Imran Khan, as he was disqualified by the election commission for making “false statements and incorrect declaration”.

After months of denial, Khan on September 8 admitted in a written reply that he sold at least four presents he had received during his tenure as the prime minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The whole Toshakhana row over the sale of state gifts received by Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan is getting murkier by each passing day. Now, according to a report by Dawn newspaper, a Dubai-based businessman has claimed that he was sold some of the state gifts, including an expensive Graff wristwatch gifted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman, to Imran Khan .

The whole Toshakhana row over the sale of state gifts received by Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan is getting murkier by each passing day. Now, according to a report by Dawn newspaper, a Dubai-based businessman has claimed that he was sold some of the state gifts, including an expensive Graff wristwatch gifted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman, to Imran Khan . In an interview with TV channel Geo News, Umar Farooq Zahoor claimed that he bought the expensive watch for $2 million. At the time of sale in 2019, the watch was worth Rs 280 million. According to Pakistan’s law, any gift received from dignitaries of a foreign state must be put in the state depository or the Toshakhana. The Norwegian-Pakistani millionaire further claimed to have evidence of buying the watch and three other gifts from Farhat Shahzadi, also known as Farah Gogi, for 7.5 million Dirhams in cash. Shahzadi is allegedly a friend of Bushra Bibi, the wife of Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan. Zahoor claimed that he was reached out to by former accountability minister Shahzad Akbar over the purchase of these gifts. Gravitas: Decoding Pakistan's 'Toshakhana' Gifts Controversy “In March 2019, former accountability minister Shahzad Akbar said that he had a set of watches and if I was interested, I should reach out to Farah [Khan] (a close aide of Imran’s wife Bushra Bibi) as she needed help and didn’t have any asset buyer,” Zahoor told Geo News. The businessman claimed that he was later on blackmailed and fake cases of money laundering were registered against him by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) at the behest of Akbar after he refused to listen to the demands made by his former wife Sophia Mirza. Also read | Imran Khan barred from running for public office for five years by Pakistan election commission However, Akbar, in a late-night tweet on Tuesday, denied having ever met Zahoor. Also read | Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khan claims propaganda cell 'feeding journalists' against him “It is sad that they are using a person against Imran Khan, whose citizenship has been revoked by Norway due to his crimes, who is wanted by Interpol, who has committed fraud in various countries and who has smuggled his daughters to Dubai using forged documents,” he said. The Toshakhana issue has become a major sticking point for Imran Khan, as he was disqualified by the election commission for making “false statements and incorrect declaration”. After months of denial, Khan on September 8 admitted in a written reply that he sold at least four presents he had received during his tenure as the prime minister. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Toshakhana case: Dubai-based businessman says gifts given to ex-PM Imran Khan sold to him

Pakistan’s former minister Imran Khan is not barred from contesting elections, a local court has observed while dismissing his petition to grant a stay order against the Election Commission’s (EC) decision to disqualify him as a lawmaker for hiding his assets in the Toshakhana graft case.

The 70-year-old chief of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party was disqualified on Friday by the country’s electoral watchdog after he was accused of “not sharing details" of Toshakhana (treasure-house) gifts and proceeds from their sale during his time as prime minister.

On Monday, Islamabad court’s Chief Justice of Islamabad’s High Court Athar Minallah said that he was eligible to contest in future elections and added that the disqualification order only covers the current tenure in parliament.

Justice Minallah asked the former cricketer to refile his appeal in three days and then seek suspension of the order.

"Imran Khan is not disqualified for that election. There should be one standard for all. There is no need to rush in this case," he said, according to Geo News.

The court’s observations came over some confusion regarding the duration of Khan’s qualification, with some saying that he was barred from contesting elections for five years.

Toshakhana is a department under the administrative control of the Cabinet Division and stores precious gifts given to rulers, parliamentarians, bureaucrats, and officials by heads of other governments and states and foreign dignitaries. It was established in 1974.

The EC had said that Khan failed to disclose the proceeds of the sale of state gifts that he purchased from the Toshakhana.

&nbsp;Pakistani law does not bar lawmakers from selling such gifts but hiding these transactions is illegal.

The row over Toshakhana case comes amidst Pakistan’s political turmoil, with Khan, who was ousted in April after losing a no-confidence vote in Parliament, seeking snap elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan’s former minister Imran Khan is not barred from contesting elections, a local court has observed while dismissing his petition to grant a stay order against the Election Commission’s (EC) decision to disqualify him as a lawmaker for hiding his assets in the Toshakhana graft case.

Pakistan’s former minister Imran Khan is not barred from contesting elections, a local court has observed while dismissing his petition to grant a stay order against the Election Commission’s (EC) decision to disqualify him as a lawmaker for hiding his assets in the Toshakhana graft case. The 70-year-old chief of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party was disqualified on Friday by the country’s electoral watchdog after he was accused of “not sharing details" of Toshakhana (treasure-house) gifts and proceeds from their sale during his time as prime minister. On Monday, Islamabad court’s Chief Justice of Islamabad’s High Court Athar Minallah said that he was eligible to contest in future elections and added that the disqualification order only covers the current tenure in parliament. Justice Minallah asked the former cricketer to refile his appeal in three days and then seek suspension of the order. "Imran Khan is not disqualified for that election. There should be one standard for all. There is no need to rush in this case," he said, according to Geo News. The court’s observations came over some confusion regarding the duration of Khan’s qualification, with some saying that he was barred from contesting elections for five years. Toshakhana is a department under the administrative control of the Cabinet Division and stores precious gifts given to rulers, parliamentarians, bureaucrats, and officials by heads of other governments and states and foreign dignitaries. It was established in 1974. The EC had said that Khan failed to disclose the proceeds of the sale of state gifts that he purchased from the Toshakhana. Pakistani law does not bar lawmakers from selling such gifts but hiding these transactions is illegal. The row over Toshakhana case comes amidst Pakistan’s political turmoil, with Khan, who was ousted in April after losing a no-confidence vote in Parliament, seeking snap elections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pak ex-PM Imran Khan not barred from contesting elections, says high court

Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan was booked under an attempt to murder charge in Islamabad.

It comes in response to a complaint filed on Saturday by the opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha a day after he was attacked outside the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) office in Islamabad where Khan’s -supporters were protesting his disqualification in Toshakhana case.

He claimed that when he arrived at the electoral watchdog’s office, Khan’s supporters attacked him at the "behest of PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) leadership” with the "intention of murder", according to local media reports.

He further alleged that attempts were made to break into his car by smashing its glass.

In the FIR, Ranjha said that he appeared before the ECP as a plaintiff in the Toshakhana case.

The Toshakhana case refers to the incident where it was alleged that Khan during his tenure as the PM incorrectly declared details of presents from foreign dignitaries and proceeds from their alleged sale. The gifts included Rolex watches, a ring and a pair of cuff links.

Following this the ECP barred Khan from holding office for five years, prompting a wave of protests from the PTI members and supporters.

Videos shared on social media showed police firing tear gas to disperse Khan’s supporters holding a protest outside the capital Islamabad. Security in the city has been stepped up.

Under Pakistani laws, government officials are required to declare all gifts, but are allowed to keep those below a certain value. In some cases, the recipient can buy them back at around 50 per cent.

Last month, Khan admitted that he sold at least four gifts he had received during his premiership and that they had been included in his income tax returns.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan was booked under an attempt to murder charge in Islamabad. It comes in response to a complaint filed on Saturday by the opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha a day after he was attacked outside the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) office in Islamabad where Khan’s -supporters were protesting his disqualification in Toshakhana case.

Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan was booked under an attempt to murder charge in Islamabad. It comes in response to a complaint filed on Saturday by the opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha a day after he was attacked outside the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) office in Islamabad where Khan’s -supporters were protesting his disqualification in Toshakhana case. He claimed that when he arrived at the electoral watchdog’s office, Khan’s supporters attacked him at the "behest of PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) leadership” with the "intention of murder", according to local media reports. He further alleged that attempts were made to break into his car by smashing its glass. In the FIR, Ranjha said that he appeared before the ECP as a plaintiff in the Toshakhana case. The Toshakhana case refers to the incident where it was alleged that Khan during his tenure as the PM incorrectly declared details of presents from foreign dignitaries and proceeds from their alleged sale. The gifts included Rolex watches, a ring and a pair of cuff links. Following this the ECP barred Khan from holding office for five years, prompting a wave of protests from the PTI members and supporters. Videos shared on social media showed police firing tear gas to disperse Khan’s supporters holding a protest outside the capital Islamabad. Security in the city has been stepped up. Under Pakistani laws, government officials are required to declare all gifts, but are allowed to keep those below a certain value. In some cases, the recipient can buy them back at around 50 per cent. Last month, Khan admitted that he sold at least four gifts he had received during his premiership and that they had been included in his income tax returns. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan’s former PM Imran Khan charged with attempt to murder

Pakistan's election commission on Friday disqualified former prime minister Imran Khan for five years from holding public office over charges of unlawfully selling state gifts received from heads of other nations and foreign dignitaries, local media reported.

"The ECP (Election Commission of Pakistan) has declared Imran Khan was involved in corrupt practices," said Imran's lawyer Gohar Khan.

"We are going to challenge it in the Islamabad high court right now."

The case is another twist in the political tussle on since even before Imran's ouster in April. It is one of several being fought by the former international cricket star and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

"In our opinion the Election Commission of Pakistan is not a court, therefore they can't give a declaration to disqualify anyone," PTI senator Syed Ali Zafar, a barrister representing Khan, told a press conference Friday before the ruling.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khans-pti-wins-six-seats-in-national-assembly-in-by-elections-upsets-ruling-government-525974">Pakistan by-elections: Imran Khan-led PTI wins most seats in upset for ruling coalition</a>

The case centres on a government department known as "Toshakhana", which during the Mughal era referred to the "treasure houses" kept by the sub-continent's princely rulers to store and display gifts they received.&nbsp;

Government officials are supposed to declare all gifts, but can keep only those below a certain value.

More expensive items must go to Toshakhana, but in some cases the recipient can buy them back at around 50 per cent of their value. Imran raised this discount from 20 per cent while in office.

Pakistani newspapers have been reporting about how Imran and his wife received expensive gifts, such as&nbsp;luxury watches, jewellery, designer handbags and perfumes, during trips abroad.

Khan failed to declare some gifts or the profit made from selling them. When the charges were first brought against him,&nbsp;he admitted to not declaring some gifts on national security grounds.&nbsp;

But later, in a written submission, he admitted buying items worth nearly 22 million rupees ($100,000), and later selling them for more than twice that amount.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Pakistan's election commission on Friday disqualified former prime minister Imran Khan for five years from holding public office over charges of unlawfully selling state gifts received from heads of other nations and foreign dignitaries, local media reported.

Pakistan's election commission on Friday disqualified former prime minister Imran Khan for five years from holding public office over charges of unlawfully selling state gifts received from heads of other nations and foreign dignitaries, local media reported. "The ECP (Election Commission of Pakistan) has declared Imran Khan was involved in corrupt practices," said Imran's lawyer Gohar Khan. "We are going to challenge it in the Islamabad high court right now." The case is another twist in the political tussle on since even before Imran's ouster in April. It is one of several being fought by the former international cricket star and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. "In our opinion the Election Commission of Pakistan is not a court, therefore they can't give a declaration to disqualify anyone," PTI senator Syed Ali Zafar, a barrister representing Khan, told a press conference Friday before the ruling. Also Read | Pakistan by-elections: Imran Khan-led PTI wins most seats in upset for ruling coalition The case centres on a government department known as "Toshakhana", which during the Mughal era referred to the "treasure houses" kept by the sub-continent's princely rulers to store and display gifts they received. Government officials are supposed to declare all gifts, but can keep only those below a certain value. More expensive items must go to Toshakhana, but in some cases the recipient can buy them back at around 50 per cent of their value. Imran raised this discount from 20 per cent while in office. Pakistani newspapers have been reporting about how Imran and his wife received expensive gifts, such as luxury watches, jewellery, designer handbags and perfumes, during trips abroad. Khan failed to declare some gifts or the profit made from selling them. When the charges were first brought against him, he admitted to not declaring some gifts on national security grounds. But later, in a written submission, he admitted buying items worth nearly 22 million rupees ($100,000), and later selling them for more than twice that amount. (With inputs from agencies)

Imran Khan barred from running for public office for five years by Pakistan election commission

Imran Khan has admitted that he sold out four foreign presents that he had received during his tenure as the Prime Minister of Pakistan. Khan submitted a response to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in the Toshakhana case against him.

WION Dispatch: Imran Khan admits to selling four gifts which he got when he was PM

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