SC rejects Aamir Liaquat's apology in contempt case

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf MNA Aamir Liaquat Hussain’s apology in a case pertaining to contemptuous remarks against the court.

Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar said the lawmaker will be indicted today and summoned a federal law officer.

The court, however, adjourned the case for indefinite period owing to paucity of time.

At the previous hearing,  the chief justice dismissed Liaquat’s unconditional apology, saying “we are not here to be disgraced, the practice of committing contempt first and then later apologizing will not be tolerated.”

As the hearing went underway, clips from Liaquat’s television program, showing contemptuous comments, were played as an evidence.

CJ Nisar further asked, “After indictment, can an individual remain a member of National Assembly?” To which Liaquat’s counsel replied “No sir”.

Last month, the apex court had issued a notice to Amir Liaquat over insulting remarks against the judiciary and directed him to submit his response in 14 days.

Similarly, on August 10, the apex court had imposed Rs 20,000 fine on him for failing to appear before the court.

A petition was filed against Amir Liaquat in the top court, which contended that Mr Hussain leveled false and unfounded allegations against political personalities and citizens in his program on a private news channel.