Khan and Bushra Bibi are accused of causing
losses to the national treasury through
the illegal sale and retention of state gifts
Web Desk
Rawalpindi: A special court in Islamabad on Thursday indicted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder-chairman Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, in the Toshakhana jewellery case.
The charges were framed by Special Court Central-I Judge Shahrukh Arjumand during a hearing held at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail. Initially investigated by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), the case was later transferred to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) following amendments to NAB laws. The FIA filed its challan in September this year.
Allegations Against the Couple
Khan and Bushra Bibi are accused of causing losses to the national treasury through the illegal sale and retention of state gifts. Among these are diamond jewellery and seven luxury watches, including six Rolexes, with the most expensive valued at ₹85 million ($305,000).
The couple allegedly retained and sold gifts worth more than ₹140 million ($501,000) received during Khan’s tenure as prime minister from 2018 to 2022. NAB’s reference claims the duo violated the NAB Ordinance by failing to deposit the jewellery in Toshakhana.
Legal Proceedings and Bail Status
Although both Khan and Bushra have been granted bail in the case, Khan remains behind bars in other cases. Bushra Bibi was arrested in July but released on post-arrest bail by the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in October. However, legal challenges persist for both, with Khan reportedly named in 188 cases and Bushra Bibi facing potential revocation of bail for non-attendance at hearings.
Earlier this year, both were handed a 14-year sentence on similar charges, though their sentences were later suspended by the high court on appeal.
Background on Toshakhana Case
NAB’s investigation revealed the jewellery set was purchased in May 2018 for €300,000 (necklace) and €80,000 (earrings). In 2021, the total estimated value was ₹70.56 million, with 50% of the price owed to the state treasury. The reference alleges that Khan and Bushra retained 58 out of 108 gifts during his premiership, misusing their powers.
Khan’s Other Legal Challenges
Imran Khan is also facing charges of inciting attacks against the military and leading anti-government rallies. His legal battles began after his ousting in 2022, with allegations that cases were fabricated to sideline him politically.
Conclusion
The Toshakhana case highlights allegations of financial misconduct during Khan’s tenure and continues to dominate Pakistan’s political and legal landscape. Both Khan and Bushra deny the charges, terming them politically motivated.
