Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rashid’s whereabouts remain unknown after almost 15 days since his arrest from his residence in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. While Rashid’s lawyer claims that he is in the custody of the Rawalpindi police, the police have denied having him in custody. The Rawalpindi bench of the Lahore High Court (LHC) has ordered the police to locate Sheikh Rashid’s whereabouts and make efforts for his recovery. Here is a timeline of the events and controversies surrounding Sheikh Rashid:
January:
– Lal Haveli Residence Sealed: The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) sealed Sheikh Rashid’s renowned Lal Haveli residence after discovering fake ownership documents of one of its eight units. The LHC’s Rawalpindi bench directed the board to de-seal the residence.
February:
– Arrest and Physical Remand: Sheikh Rashid was arrested by the Islamabad police and granted a two-day physical remand by an Islamabad court in connection with his alleged objectionable remarks against former president Asif Ali Zardari.
– FIRs Stay Order: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued a stay order against the registration of FIRs against Sheikh Rashid across the country.
May:
– Diplomatic Passport Cancelled: The government cancelled Sheikh Rashid’s diplomatic passport as part of a crackdown on the PTI and its leaders after the May 9 violence in the country.
– Vows Support for Imran Khan: Sheikh Rashid pledged his unwavering support for Imran Khan amid the ongoing witch-hunt against the PTI.
– NAB Notice Response: Sheikh Rashid submitted a response to the notice issued by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in the Al-Qadir Trust case.
June:
– Police Raids and Alleged Torture: Sheikh Rashid claimed that police forces raided his home and allegedly tortured his houseworkers on multiple occasions.
September:
– Arrest and Denial by Police: Sheikh Rashid was allegedly arrested along with his nephew and houseworker, but the police denied having him in custody.
– Lal Haveli Residence Sealed Again: Authorities sealed Sheikh Rashid’s Lal Haveli residence due to a dispute over the property’s ownership.
– Hearing and Efforts for Recovery: The Rawalpindi bench of the LHC ordered the police to locate Sheikh Rashid’s whereabouts and make efforts for his recovery.
Despite the ongoing controversies and uncertainties, Sheikh Rashid’s relatives and supporters continue to demand answers and express their readiness to face the cases filed against him. The situation remains unresolved as further proceedings have been adjourned.