CJ irked by accused's absence due to roadblock

Punjab chief secretary summoned for explanation

LAHORE:

Lahore High Court (LHC) Chief Justice Aalia Neelum has expressed displeasure over failure of the relevant authorities to produce an accused during the hearing of a bail application in a fraud case due to road closures linked to cricket matches.

She questioned the police for failing to present the suspect before the court and remarked that such disruptions were causing delays in trial proceedings.

The court summoned the Punjab chief secretary and home secretary for an explanation, while ordering that the trial be conducted on a day-to-day basis.

According to the prosecution, the accused, Ali Ameer, is involved in a fraud case registered in Liaquatabad for allegedly depriving the complainant of property worth Rs40 million.

The defence argued that the trial has been delayed due to security-related movement restrictions during PSL matches and requested the court to grant bail.

A petition challenging the closure of roads during VVIP movement and cricket matches has also been filed in the LHC.

The petitioner's counsel argued that frequent road blockades for security disrupt public life.