An anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi has adjourned proceedings until October 20 in the case against lawyer and rights activist Imaan Mazari-Hazir and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha. The case concerns alleged removal of security barriers. The hearing took place on Monday, after the couple’s counsel, Advocate Zainab Janjua, withdrew her vakalatnama, or power of attorney.
Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra of the ATC presided over the hearing at Adiala jail, where the couple is currently detained. Janjua appeared for the accused before formally withdrawing. No statement from a prosecution witness was recorded on Monday, and the court set the next hearing for 10am on Tuesday.
Allegations linked to a cricket team’s security route
The prosecution alleges that Imaan and Hadi removed security barriers placed along the route of an international cricket team and interfered with official duties. The case was registered at Aabpara Police Station and also includes allegations of incitement to public unrest. The couple was indicted on October 7, after which the court summoned prosecution witnesses to record their statements.
The court has yet to decide on these allegations, which remain before it for adjudication.
Trial held inside Adiala jail
The proceedings are being held on prison premises under a notification that authorised a jail trial. The arrangement followed police claims that transporting the accused to court was difficult. At the previous hearing on October 16, the couple objected to the way they were presented before the court.
Their lawyers challenged the jail-trial arrangement and asked for proceedings at the prison to be brought to an end. The couple and their lawyers then walked out of the courtroom in protest. According to media reports, a prosecution witness recorded a statement during that hearing.
Defence raises concerns over access to lawyers
The defence has raised concerns about access to legal counsel and the conditions under which lawyers may meet the accused. At an earlier hearing, Advocate Aimal Khan Mandokhail filed an affidavit saying that his meeting with Imaan at the jail lacked privacy and that he was not permitted to hand over case documents. The court directed jail authorities to facilitate meetings between the accused and their lawyers in line with prison rules.
The barrier-removal case is separate from other cases involving the couple, including one linked to a protest and alleged interference with police officials.
