Lahore: A sessions court in Lahore on Thursday extended the interim pre-arrest bail of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Member of the Punjab Assembly Saqib Chadhar and his wife until July 13 in a case involving allegations of online harassment and cyberstalking made by television actress Momina Iqbal.
According to Beyond Time News, the court also directed both accused to cooperate with investigators and instructed the prosecution to submit an updated progress report at the next hearing.
The case has attracted public attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and its connection to a sitting provincial lawmaker.
Court Extends Interim Relief
The hearing was conducted by Additional District and Sessions Judge Nusrat Ali Siddiqi.
Saqib Chadhar appeared before the court along with his legal counsel, while his wife was absent after seeking exemption from personal appearance on medical grounds.
After reviewing the proceedings, the court extended the interim pre-arrest bail of both accused until July 13.
According to Beyond Time News, the judge also directed them to join the ongoing investigation and cooperate fully with the relevant authorities.
Allegations Made by Momina Iqbal
The legal proceedings began after actress Momina Iqbal publicly alleged that she had been subjected to prolonged online harassment, cyberbullying, and threats.
In a social media statement shared in May, she claimed that the alleged harassment had caused severe emotional distress to both her and her family.
She further alleged that a provincial lawmaker repeatedly threatened her and that earlier complaints submitted to relevant authorities had not resulted in timely action.
The actress also claimed that she faced pressure aimed at discouraging her from pursuing the matter.
Investigation Began After Complaint
Following the public allegations, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) initiated an inquiry into the complaint.
Both Momina Iqbal and Saqib Chadhar were summoned to record their statements as part of the investigation.
According to Beyond Time News, the actress later approached Chung Police in Lahore and requested the registration of a criminal case against the lawmaker.
In her complaint, she alleged that Chadhar repeatedly contacted her through phone calls, WhatsApp messages, and video calls.
She further claimed that threatening messages were also sent to a member of her family.
The allegations remain under investigation, and the court has not reached any findings regarding their merits.
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Cybercrime Case Registered
The NCCIA subsequently registered a case against Saqib Chadhar under multiple provisions of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).
The case includes allegations relating to:
- Unauthorized access to digital information.
- Unauthorized transmission of electronic data.
- Offences against the modesty of a person.
- Cyberstalking.
- Criminal intimidation.
- Destruction or concealment of evidence.
- Abetment and common intention.
The registration of the case initiated formal criminal proceedings, after which the accused sought protective bail from the court.
Government Response
The allegations also drew attention from the Punjab government.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated publicly that any attempt to misuse political influence, pressure an individual, or threaten the release of private material would not be tolerated.
She emphasized that all complaints should be investigated according to the law and that no one should receive preferential treatment because of political office.
Officials also directed the relevant authorities to examine the allegations in accordance with legal procedures.
What Happens Next?
The investigation will continue under the supervision of the NCCIA while the accused remain on interim pre-arrest bail.
At the next hearing on July 13, investigators are expected to submit a progress report detailing developments in the inquiry.
The court will then decide whether to extend the interim relief further or proceed with the next stage of the legal process.
As the matter remains before the courts, no conclusions have been reached regarding the allegations, and all parties are entitled to due process under Pakistani law.
Why the Case Has Drawn Attention
The case has received significant public interest because it involves allegations of cyber harassment against a serving provincial legislator and highlights growing concerns about online abuse in Pakistan.
Legal experts say the proceedings may also draw attention to the enforcement of cybercrime laws and the mechanisms available for victims seeking legal protection from online harassment.
The outcome of the investigation could provide further clarity on how such complaints are handled under Pakistan’s digital crime framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Lahore court extend Saqib Chadhar’s bail?
The court extended the interim pre-arrest bail until July 13 and directed the accused to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
What allegations has Momina Iqbal made?
The actress has alleged online harassment, cyberbullying, criminal intimidation, and repeated threats. These allegations are currently under investigation.
Which agency is investigating the case?
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is conducting the investigation.
Has the court declared anyone guilty?
No. The case remains under investigation, and the court has not reached any findings regarding the allegations.
When is the next hearing?
The next hearing is scheduled for July 13, when the prosecution is expected to submit an updated investigation report.
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