ChatGPT cited in PTI foreign funding case hearing

A hearing in the foreign funding case involving PTI founder Imran Khan took an unusual turn when his lawyer reportedly cited ChatGPT during arguments in court.

The case, which relates to alleged foreign funding and is pending before a special court, saw further delays as the prosecution failed to submit the challan. Officials informed the court that scrutiny of the challan was still being carried out by the registrar of the banking court.

During the proceedings, the defence lawyer argued that according to ChatGPT, the registrar does not have the authority to scrutinise challans. The lawyer questioned the process being followed, asking what kind of case allows such scrutiny at the registrar level.

In response, the prosecution maintained that in special courts, it is indeed the registrar who conducts preliminary scrutiny of challans. The prosecutor further remarked that if reliance is being placed on ChatGPT, it could not be treated as a legal authority in court proceedings.

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The exchange highlighted growing debates over the use of artificial intelligence tools in legal arguments, particularly regarding their reliability in interpreting procedural law.

Separately, the court reserved its decision on bail-before-arrest applications of two accused individuals in the case. The hearing was adjourned until 11 May.

The foreign funding case has been under judicial consideration for an extended period, with multiple procedural delays reported during its progression. Legal experts note that such delays are not uncommon in complex financial investigations involving political parties.

The case continues to draw public and political attention due to its implications for party funding transparency and electoral accountability in Pakistan.