IHC Restores Bail of Journalist Sohrab Barkat in Cybercrime Case

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday reinstated the bail of journalist Sohrab Barkat in a cybercrime case, overturning a previous decision by a trial court that had revoked his post-arrest bail. The case was registered against Barkat by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).

Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir presided over the hearing of Barkat’s petition, which challenged the trial court’s order cancelling his bail. Barrister Saad Rasool, representing Barkat, argued that the trial court had made an error in revoking the bail, stating that Barkat had complied with all conditions set by the court.

After considering the arguments, the high court found that the trial court’s order could not be sustained. The IHC set aside the cancellation and restored Barkat’s bail, directing authorities to release him immediately, provided he is not required in any other case.

The case against Sohrab Barkat was registered over allegations of spreading unspecified content. The restoration of his bail in this last remaining case effectively paves the way for his release.

The IHC’s decision nullifies the previous order and allows Barkat to be released from custody, unless he is needed in connection with any other ongoing investigations or cases.