ATC names state counsel for Imaan, Hadi

An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Wednesday assigned a state counsel to cross-examine prosecution witnesses on behalf of lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha in a security breach case.

On Oct 7, the ATC had framed charges against Imaan and Hadi in the case related to the alleged violation of a designated route and incitement during the arrival of an international cricket team, despite defence objections that legal requirements had not been fulfilled.

On Wednesday, the ATC directed Advocate Taimur Janjua to appear at the next hearing after defence lawyers failed to cross-examine witnesses during the day's proceedings.

Advocate Aimal Khan Mandokhail appeared before the judge on behalf of Imaan and Hadi and requested an adjournment.

The court turned down the request, observing that the prosecution witnesses were present at the hearing and the defence could cross-examine them.

"The witnesses are present; you may proceed with the cross-examination," judge Tahir Abbas Sipra said.

Advocate Mandokhail replied that senior counsel Riasat Ali Azad was not present and that he would cross-examine the witnesses.

The judge observed that the accused were lawyers themselves and could conduct the cross-examination in their own case if they wished.

The court order stated that it was "made crystal clear" at the last hearing that the accused should ensure the presence of their lawyers for cross-examination.