Model Town inquiry report: LHC irked over absence of Punjab govt counsel

LAHORE: An unusual situation took place in the Lahore High Court on Wednesday over the reasons for the absence of the Punjab government’s counsel. 

A three-member bench head by Justice Abid Aziz Sheikh was hearing the appeal filed by the government of Punjab over the release of the inquiry report of the Model Town incident.

Khawaja Harris, the cousel for the Punjab government, had submitted an application to excuse himself saying that he had to appear in the Supreme Court and the hearing to be deferred.

However, the state prosecutor informed the Lahore court the Khawaja Harris was abroad. The court expressed immense displeasure about the contradictions in the statements.

The appeal was filed by the Advocate General’s office, and it was said by the during the first hearing that the state prosecutor can argue the case if Khawaja Harris is not present.

The Lahore court observed that the Punjab government was using delaying tactics. The government’s counsel had promised to ensure his presence to hold the hearing on a daily basis which was not implemented.

The opposing counsel said that absence of Khawaja Harris demonstrated ill-intention and negligence, and is used delaying tactics, while state resources are being used to impede justice. He pleaded the court to hold daily hearings and conclude the case at the earliest.