Verdict reserved in TikToker murder case

ISLAMABAD:

The Islamabad High Court has reserved its verdict on a petition filed by accused Umar Hayat seeking transfer of the TikToker Sana Yousaf murder case to another court.

Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar, while hearing the case, remarked that if parties approach the high court, they should inform the trial court. He noted that the trial court is a model court and is expected to proceed expeditiously.

The accused's counsel argued that the trial court's conduct was inappropriate, claiming that a state counsel was appointed in their absence and cross-examination was conducted without granting adequate opportunity.

He requested that previous proceedings be set aside and a fresh opportunity for cross-examination be provided, expressing a lack of confidence in the trial court.

The complainant's counsel opposed the request, stating that despite multiple opportunities over ten months, only two witnesses had been cross-examined after statements were recorded.

He added that the trial court had provided sufficient facilitation.

The chief justice questioned the defence's conduct, asking how the court could proceed if commitments for cross-examination were not honoured.