The Lahore High Court has confirmed interim bail for Muhammad Azam in the Lahore High
Court schoolgirl abduction case, involving allegations of abduction and sexual assault.
Justice Syed Shahbaz Ali Rizvi issued a written judgment explaining the reasons behind the
court’s decision.

The case was registered by Okara police after the girl’s father accused Muhammad Azam of
taking his daughter from school. According to the complainant, the accused also sexually
assaulted the girl. However, the court noted that the police investigation report did not support
the allegation of abduction.

According to the written judgment, the girl stated that nobody had abducted her. She told the
authorities that she had married the accused. Her father claimed that the marriage took place
when she was around fifteen years old.

The complainant also stated that a medical board had estimated the girl’s age to be between
fourteen and fifteen years. The court highlighted the need for further investigation into her age
and the circumstances surrounding the marriage.

The court explained that the trial court would examine the available evidence and determine the
accused’s role during the proceedings. It also observed that if the marriage occurred when the
girl was fourteen or fifteen, the matter could involve a violation of the Child Marriage Restraint
Act.

The Lahore High Court granted Muhammad Azam interim bail against surety bonds worth ten
lakh rupees. This decision provides temporary relief while the legal proceedings continue. It
does not establish the accused’s innocence or settle the allegations against him.

The trial court will review the evidence and decide the matter according to law. Further
proceedings will help establish the relevant facts and determine any legal responsibility in the
case.

Source: Lahore High Court’s written judgment, as described in the original news report.

Fatima Khan