A Life of Devotion
On March 8, 2023, the death of Ali Bilal, affectionately known as Zille Shah, a dedicated worker of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), sent shockwaves through Pakistan’s political landscape. A resident of Jahangir Town, Lahore, and a staunch supporter of PTI leader Imran Khan, Zille Shah’s untimely demise in police custody—or, as contested, a supposed road accident—has sparked outrage, debate, and a quest for justice that continues to resonate over two years later.
Zille Shah, the son of Liaqat Ali and brother to Ali Usman, was described by those who knew him as a passionate and resilient figure. Despite his intellectual disabilities, he was a regular presence at PTI gatherings, often seen outside Imran Khan’s Zaman Park residence, contributing what he could, including fundraising for the Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital since 1992. His love for his country and party was evident in his daily visits, where he spent his modest 50 rupees on tea and biscuits, symbolizing a humble yet unwavering commitment to the cause.
The Circumstances of His Death
The events leading to Zille Shah’s death unfolded during a PTI rally on March 8, 2023, intended to launch the party’s election campaign. Clashes erupted between PTI workers and Lahore police enforcing Section 144, a measure to curb political protests. Zille Shah was among those detained near Zaman Park. A video shared by Imran Khan showed him alive in a police van, fueling claims of custodial torture. Hours later, his severely injured body was dropped at Services Hospital by individuals in a private 4×4 vehicle, who then fled the scene.
The post-mortem report revealed a grim reality: 26 marks of torture, a fractured skull, intracranial hemorrhaging, and injuries to sensitive areas, pointing to excessive blunt force trauma. PTI leaders, including Imran Khan and Fawad Chaudhry, alleged murder by Punjab police, demanding accountability from officials like IG Usman Anwar and Caretaker CM Mohsin Naqvi. However, the police countered with a narrative of a road accident, supported by CCTV footage and statements from arrested individuals, including PTI’s Raja Shakeel, who allegedly drove the vehicle.
Conflicting Narratives
The official stance, led by Punjab’s caretaker government, insists Zille Shah’s death resulted from a traffic incident near Fortress Stadium, with forensic evidence of blood in the recovered vehicle. IG Anwar and CM Naqvi rejected torture allegations, promising to share evidence with Zille Shah’s family. Yet, the PTI and supporters, backed by the autopsy’s findings, argue this was a cover-up, citing the brutality inconsistent with a mere accident. Zille Shah’s father, Liaqat Ali, initially sought a murder FIR against police officials but later expressed uncertainty, suggesting PTI’s version might be politically motivated.
A Nation Divided
Zille Shah’s death ignited a firestorm on social media, with hashtags like #ZilleShah and #AliBilal trending as Pakistanis mourned and demanded justice. PTI organized ghaibana namaz-e-janaza (absentee funeral prayers) across the country, framing him as a martyr. Critics, however, question the party’s narrative, pointing to inconsistencies in witness accounts and the involvement of PTI workers in transporting the body. The Lahore High Court’s confirmation of Imran Khan’s pre-arrest bail in the related case reflects the legal quagmire, with investigations stalling and truth elusive.
Legacy and Unanswered Questions
Two years on, Zille Shah’s sacrifice remains a poignant symbol for PTI supporters, who see him as a victim of state oppression. His story highlights the risks faced by grassroots workers in Pakistan’s polarized politics, where loyalty can lead to peril. Yet, the lack of a conclusive investigation leaves lingering doubts: Was this custodial violence or a tragic accident? The absence of a judicial inquiry, despite public calls, suggests political sensitivities may overshadow justice.
As Pakistan navigates its democratic struggles, Zille Shah’s legacy endures as a call for transparency and accountability. His love for his country, expressed through simple acts of support, challenges the nation to reflect on the cost of political dissent and the value of every citizen’s life.
