Former federal minister Asad Umar has been granted pre-arrest bail until August 29 in the leaked cipher case. Umar approached the special court in Islamabad established for issues related to complaints filed under the Official Secrets Act. The case revolves around the alleged “disappearance” of a diplomatic cipher. It gained prominence when former Prime Minister Imran Khan waved it at a public gathering in 2022, claiming it as evidence of an international conspiracy against his government.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Booking Imran Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi under the Official Secrets Act. Recently, a US publication published the contents of the diplomatic cipher, reigniting discussions around the issue.
Asad Umar’s appearance before the FIA-led joint investigation team (JIT) marked a significant development in the probe. The JIT examines the alleged manipulation of the classified diplomatic cipher during PTI’s rule. The investigation stems from allegations that Imran Khan and his associates, including Qureshi and his former principal secretary, jeopardized national security by publicly revealing classified information without proper authorization.
Islamabad Police previously arrested Shah Mahmood Qureshi upon the FIA’s orders. The charges against him include the misuse and unauthorized retention of the cipher telegram. The investigation also invokes severe legal provisions related to counter-terrorism and national security.
The special court, under the jurisdiction of ATC-I Judge Abual Hasnat Zulqarnain, has been designated to hear all cases across the country registered under the Official Secrets Act. The trials will be conducted on camera, reflecting the sensitivity and confidentiality of the subject matter. Judge Zulqarnain, appointed by the Ministry of Law and Justice on June 27, oversees these proceedings until December 8, 2025.
Asad Umar’s legal team argued in court that the case against him was politically motivated, designed to harass and blackmail him. They maintained that the allegations were baseless and emphasized Umar’s willingness to cooperate with the investigation. As a result of these arguments, his pre-arrest bail was extended until August 29.
In a separate case related to protests following Imran Khan disqualification by the Election Commission of Pakistan, Asad Umar secured an extension of his bail until October 12. Umar and other former ruling party leaders were charged with offenses including terrorism, obstructing justice, and vandalism in a case registered at Sangjani police station. This case emerged amidst widespread protests triggered by Imran Khan’s disqualification.
Asad Umar’s appearances before the unique and anti-terrorism courts underscore the legal complexities and controversies surrounding these cases. The leaked cipher case highlights concerns over national security & the proper handling of sensitive information. The legal proceedings reflect the Pakistani government’s commitment to addressing allegations of unauthorized information disclosure and maintaining the integrity of national security measures.
The outcomes of these cases are poised to impact Pakistan’s political landscape and discussions around transparency, accountability, and the responsible handling of classified information. Asad Umar’s securing of pre-arrest bail reflects the ongoing legal processes to uncover the truth and ensure justice is served.