ATC Denies Sheikh Rashid Permission to Travel for Umrah

RAWALPINDI – An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Tuesday rejected former interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad’s petition seeking permission to travel for Umrah. The decision came amid the ongoing investigation into the May 9 GHQ attack case. Judge Amjad Ali Shah stated that Sheikh Rashid’s name had been placed on the Exit Control List (ECL) following federal government instructions.

The prosecution informed the court that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had added all suspects in the May 9 case to the ECL. This step was taken in line with directives from the federal government. The court emphasized that the placement on the ECL is part of standard legal procedure for ongoing investigations.

Sheikh Rashid’s lawyer argued that adding his name to the ECL amounted to contempt of court. He said the Lahore High Court (LHC) had previously granted Sheikh Rashid permission to perform Umrah. The lawyer highlighted that the high court had ruled names should not be added to the ECL solely based on pending cases, citing precedents involving other high-profile figures.

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In response, Sheikh Rashid expressed surprise at the court’s decision. He stated that his name had already been removed from the ECL previously. Sheikh Rashid also confirmed plans to challenge the ATC’s ruling in the high court to secure permission for Umrah.

The case continues to attract attention due to its connection to the May 9 GHQ attack. Authorities reiterated that all suspects are under strict monitoring, and the ECL remains a key legal tool to prevent unauthorized travel. Legal experts said Sheikh Rashid’s appeal in the high court will determine whether he can perform Umrah during the investigation.