PTI founder Imran Khan’s polygraph refusal has once again stalled investigations into the May 9 riots case. For the fourth time, Khan declined to undergo a lie detector test at Adiala Jail, even with his legal team present. His decision rests on constitutional grounds, specifically Article 13, which protects individuals from self-incrimination.
Investigators Face a Standstill
On Monday, a Lahore police team led by DSP Asif Javed visited Adiala Jail to conduct a polygraph, photogrammetric, and voice matching test. The delegation included officers from the Punjab Forensic Unit and technical expert Abid Ayub. The tests are part of investigations into 11 FIRs registered in Lahore over the violent events of May 9, 2023.
Despite a court order and prior arrangements, Khan once again refused participation. The jail authorities had formally notified him about the team’s arrival. However, Khan remained firm in his decision and handed over a written statement.
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Legal Grounds for Refusal
In his statement, Imran Khan cited Article 13 of the Constitution of Pakistan. This article shields an accused person from being forced to testify or produce evidence that could be used against them. Previously, Khan had conditioned his cooperation on the presence of his lawyers. But even with that condition fulfilled, he refused the tests again.
Test Delay Stalls May 9 Cases
This marks the fourth time Khan has refused polygraph testing. According to sources, without these forensic assessments, investigators face hurdles in verifying the allegations linked to Khan in the May 9 incidents. The police team waited at Adiala Jail for nearly four hours, hoping for a change of mind. Eventually, they returned to Lahore without conducting any tests.
Investigation in Limbo
With Imran Khan standing firm on his legal rights, the May 9 probe now hangs in the balance. Investigators may need to explore alternate legal avenues to move the stalled process forward.
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