Karachi court cancels Rajab Butt’s bail over repeated non-appearance in hearings

An Additional District and Sessions Court in Karachi on Friday cancelled the interim pre-arrest bail of YouTuber Rajab Butt in a case related to the alleged insult of Islamic symbols. The court issued the ruling after the accused repeatedly failed to appear for hearings.

During the proceedings, the defence counsel filed an application seeking exemption from appearance, stating that Butt was unwell and unable to attend court. However, the complainant’s counsel strongly opposed the request, arguing that the defence frequently used excuses to avoid court appearances.

In its written order, the court noted that the accused had also remained absent on previous hearing dates, January 13 and March 31, during which his absence had been condoned in the interest of justice.

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Regarding the latest absence, the judge observed that the medical grounds cited—fever, nausea, and abdominal pain—did not constitute sufficient justification for exemption, particularly in a case involving pre-arrest bail. The court further remarked that pre-arrest bail is an “extraordinary relief” that cannot be extended indefinitely or misused through repeated absences.

“The application for condonation of absence filed by the defence counsel is hereby rejected,” the judge ruled, subsequently cancelling the interim bail.

Earlier, on April 10, the same judge had expressed displeasure over missing evidence and directed police to record Butt's statement in the case.

During that hearing, the defence counsel informed the court that the investigating officer had passed away, which had delayed the investigation process. The court subsequently summoned the Investigation Officer (IO) of Hyderi Police Station and expressed anger over the absence of the case file and relevant evidence.

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“Where is the complete case file and relevant evidence?” the judge had asked, also questioning why the accused’s statement, previously ordered to be recorded, was still unavailable.

The IO reportedly informed the court that he had limited knowledge of the case and its investigation. The court then directed the SSP Investigation Central to record Butt's statement.

During the proceedings, an exchange of words also took place between the defence counsel and the judge.

The defence lawyer argued that no order had been passed on his application under Section 196, terming it unlawful. The judge responded that the court would not proceed according to counsel’s wishes and advised that, if there was a lack of confidence, a transfer application could be filed.

The hearing was later adjourned until April 24.

In a separate incident in December, Butt was assaulted by a group of lawyers at Karachi’s City Court after a hearing in a similar case.