Arguments sought on minister's video link plea

LAHORE:

A sessions court on Thursday sought final arguments on a petition filed by Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari, challenging a trial court's refusal to allow her to record her statement via video link in a case concerning the alleged circulation of a fake video.

Additional Sessions Judge Mansoor Ahmed Qureshi presided over the hearing.

During the proceedings, counsel for the minister argued that his client was unable to appear before the trial court due to security threats.

He contended that the lower court had overlooked material facts by not seeking a report regarding the alleged threats faced by the petitioner.

The counsel submitted that a formal request had been filed seeking permission for Azma Bukhari to record her statement through video link.

However, the trial court dismissed the application without, he claimed, lawful justification.

He urged the sessions court to set aside the impugned order and allow the minister to record her statement remotely in view of security concerns.