Musharraf's national ID, passport blocked by Pakistan: Reports
What's the story
Pakistani authorities have suspended the national identity card and passport of former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf on orders of a special court hearing a treason case against him, a media report said. Musharraf, 74, was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for imposing emergency in 2007 which led to the confinement of a number of SC judges and sacking of over 100 judges.
Suspension
Court had declared Musharraf a 'proclaimed offender'
On March 18, 2016, the former military ruler travelled to Dubai for medical treatment. A few months later, the special court had declared him a proclaimed offender and ordered the confiscation of his property owing to his no-show in the case. The court in March ordered the federal government to suspend his Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) and passport.
Arrest
Political asylum, one of the few options left for Musharraf
Now that his passport's been blocked, Musharraf won't be able to travel in any country. His stay in Dubai would also be illegal. He can now either seek political asylum or have special documents arranged if he desires to return to Pakistan. The court had directed the government to ensure his arrest, following which the Interior Minister had asked for suspension of his CNIC.
Do you know?
Musharraf is wanted in the assassination of Benazir Bhutto
Musharraf ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008. He is wanted in Pakistan in several criminal cases including in the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.