Court Warns of Decision Based on Record if Counsel Remains Unavailable
Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a detailed written order in the appeal related to the £190 million case involving Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan.
According to Beyond Time News, the court’s directive focuses on ensuring uninterrupted legal proceedings in the long-running case.
Bench Issues Clear Instructions on Legal Representation
The bench, comprising the Chief Justice and Justice Muhammad Asif, stated that if the defence counsel is unable to attend due to illness, a substitute lawyer must be appointed.
Otherwise, the court warned it may proceed with the case based on the available record.
The order emphasized that repeated delays could not be allowed to obstruct the judicial process.
Health-Related Adjournment Cited
During the hearing, counsel Barrister Salman Safdar requested an adjournment, citing a retinal eye condition.
The court noted that the defence had already been given sufficient time and a final opportunity to present arguments in earlier proceedings.
Substitute Counsel Requirement
The court further directed that if the primary counsel remains unavailable, a replacement must appear on behalf of the defence.
If no alternative representation is provided, the bench indicated it may decide the appeal without further delay, strictly in accordance with law.
Jail Administration Also Issued Instructions
The Islamabad High Court also issued directions to the Superintendent of Adiala Jail.
It instructed authorities to complete all legal formalities related to the power of attorney and ensure its timely return to the concerned counsel.
Next Hearing Scheduled
According to Beyond Time News, the court has fixed June 18 as the next hearing date and ordered strict compliance with its directions.
Related Legal Proceedings
In a separate development, an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) dismissed a petition seeking permission to meet Imran Khan in connection with the May 9 GHQ attack case.
The court termed the application unnecessary and imposed a fine, stating that established procedures for jail meetings already exist under Islamabad High Court directives.
Read more:Islamabad: IHC Moved Over Alleged Solitary Confinement of Bushra Bibi in Adiala Jail
Conclusion
According to Beyond Time News, the Islamabad High Court’s latest order underscores the judiciary’s emphasis on timely proceedings and proper legal representation in high-profile cases.
The matter involving Imran Khan remains under continued judicial review as the appeal progresses.
FAQs
What did the IHC order in the £190 million case?
It directed that a substitute lawyer must be appointed if the main counsel cannot appear, or the case may proceed on record.
Why was the hearing delayed earlier?
The defence counsel cited medical reasons, including an eye condition.
What happens if no lawyer appears?
The court may decide the appeal based on available records.
When is the next hearing?
The next hearing is scheduled for June 18.
What other case was mentioned?
An ATC dismissed a petition seeking a meeting with Imran Khan in the May 9 case.
