May 9 riots case: Imran Khan refuses polygraph test in absence of legal counsel

Incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan refused to undergo a polygraph test in connection with the May 9 vandalism cases, citing the absence of his legal counsel during the process.

An 11-member investigation team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP-9) Asif Javed arrived at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail on Tuesday to conduct the polygraph test.

The team also included officials from the Lahore Police, forensic experts, and three inspectors, Muhammad Aslam, Muhammad Alam, and Muhammad Arham, along with Abid Ayub from the Punjab Forensic Unit.

Read: Did any army officer face trial over 'security breach' of Jinnah House on May 9? asks SC

However, when the jail staff informed Khan about the team's arrival, he refused to leave his cell or participate in the interrogation without his lawyers present, resulting in failure in conducting test.

It is noteworthy that the Special Anti-Terrorism Court in Lahore had earlier granted permission on May 14 for a polygraph test to be conducted on Khan in relation to the May 9 incidents, during which protests and acts of vandalism took place across the country following his arrest.

The prosecution had argued that polygraphic and other scientific tests were necessary to establish the truth behind the events of May 9.

Subsequently, a formal application had been submitted to the court, requesting the said procedures.

Read: 60 more, including Imran Khan's nephew convicted in May 9 cases

However, Imran Khan's legal team, led by Barrister Salman Safdar, strongly opposed the move. During court proceedings, Safdar argued that seeking a polygraph test nearly two years after the events appeared to be a "malicious" and politically motivated attempt to target the PTI founder.

The situation remains tense, as Khan continues to face multiple legal challenges while incarceration, and the May 9 cases remain a focal point of ongoing political and judicial activity in the country.