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ISLAMABAD, Jan 15 (APP):The District and Sessions Courts of Islamabad on Thursday took strict action in the case related to disputed social media posts after the accused failed to appear, leading to the cancellation of bail, issuance of arrest warrants, and termination of the right to cross-examine a prosecution witness.
The hearing in the case against Iman Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha was held at the District and Sessions Courts Islamabad. Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka presided over the proceedings. Prosecutor Rana Usman appeared before the court, while both accused were initially absent.
An assisting counsel submitted an application seeking exemption from appearance for Iman Mazari, stating that she was unwell. The court was also informed that Hadi Ali Chattha was appearing before the High Court in another case. The judge expressed displeasure over the absence of the accused and stated that failure to appear would result in the end of their right to cross-examine the witness. The court then adjourned the hearing until 12 noon.
When proceedings resumed, Hadi Ali Chattha appeared before the court, while Iman Mazari remained absent. Chattha told the court that Iman Mazari wanted to personally cross-examine prosecution witness Shahroz and wished to ask some questions herself. The judge directed that the cross-examination be completed, otherwise the right would be withdrawn.
Islamabad District Bar Association President Chaudhry Naeem Gujar appeared in court and requested a hearing date on Monday, assuring that no further adjournment would be sought. He reiterated that Iman Mazari was unwell but wanted to conduct the cross-examination personally. The prosecution opposed any delay and urged the court to administer oath to the witness and begin cross-examination.
During this stage, an argument broke out between Bar President Naeem Gujar and Prosecutor Rana Usman inside the courtroom. As the situation escalated, the judge left the courtroom and went to his chamber, leading to a break in proceedings.
After the break, neither Iman Mazari nor Hadi Ali Chattha appeared before the court. The prosecutor alleged misconduct in the courtroom and raised objections regarding the earlier confrontation. Taking note of the continued absence, the court cancelled the bail of both accused, ordered their arrest, and directed that they be produced before the court. The court also terminated their right to cross-examine the witness.
The judge ordered that statements under Section 342 be recorded on the next date and adjourned the hearing till the following day. Later, the court issued arrest warrants for both accused and ordered that they be taken into judicial custody. The court further directed that they be produced through a video link at the next hearing.
The orders were issued by Additional District and Sessions Judge Muhammad Afzal Majoka.