LAHORE: A Lahore district court has reserved its decision on a contempt of court petition filed by Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari against Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq, counsel for PTI social media activist Falak Javed, in a case concerning the alleged circulation of a fake video involving the minister.
The petition was heard by Judicial Magistrate Naeem Wattoo. During the proceedings, lawyers for both sides presented arguments over statements made during an earlier hearing, while the court also considered an application seeking exemption from Uzma Bukhari’s appearance.
Uzma Bukhari’s lawyer seeks contempt proceedings
Uzma Bukhari’s counsel argued that Mian Ali Ashfaq had attempted to pressure the court during the previous hearing by seeking the issuance of warrants for the minister’s arrest.
The lawyer maintained that attempting to pressure or influence judicial proceedings could amount to contempt of court and requested action against Ashfaq.
He also referred to the court’s previous observations that courts do not come under pressure from any party, arguing that suggestions otherwise were incorrect.
The counsel further raised concerns about the presence of social media personalities in the courtroom and alleged that posts about the proceedings were subsequently circulated on social media. These claims were presented as arguments by the minister’s legal team and were not established by the court as facts.
Defence counsel rejects contempt allegation
Mian Ali Ashfaq opposed the contempt petition, arguing that Uzma Bukhari had not appeared for cross-examination at the previous hearing despite court directions.
He maintained that the law provides for warrants in circumstances where a complainant or party fails to appear despite judicial orders.
Ashfaq also argued that the contempt petition was an attempt to delay proceedings and said he intended to present further legal arguments on the matter.
The two sides also exchanged arguments over repeated adjournments and the pace of proceedings.
Court urges lawyers to focus on trial
During the hearing, Judicial Magistrate Naeem Wattoo urged both sides to avoid unnecessary disputes and concentrate on the legal proceedings.
The judge said lawyers should present legal arguments and allow the trial to move forward instead of creating additional obstacles. He also emphasised that both parties were equal before the court and that lawyers should maintain courtroom decorum.
The court had previously directed the parties and their lawyers to maintain the sanctity and discipline of the courtroom following heated exchanges during an earlier hearing.
Appearance exemption application also considered
Uzma Bukhari’s counsel also submitted an application seeking exemption from her appearance, citing a pending matter before the Lahore High Court.
The defence counsel said he would also present arguments regarding that application.
The court subsequently rejected the application for exemption and heard the request concerning the issuance of arrest warrants.
After hearing arguments, Judicial Magistrate Naeem Wattoo reserved his decision on the contempt petition and the application relating to Bukhari’s appearance.
The case concerns allegations surrounding the circulation of a video attributed to Uzma Bukhari. Falak Javed’s counsel has previously contested the allegations, while the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency has submitted a case challan against Javed and other accused persons.