Don't come to court to seek delays, Justice Kakar warns prosecutor

In a firm stance to curb unnecessary delays, Supreme Court (SC) Justice Hashim Kakar ruled on Tuesday that adjournments in the apex court will only be granted in cases involving the death of a judge, lawyer, or accused.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the ruling came during the hearing of Sheikh Rashid’s appeal against his conviction in the GHQ attack case. 

A three-member bench, headed by Justice Kakar, was presiding over the proceedings when the Punjab government requested more time to present evidence.

Justice Kakar strongly reprimanded Punjab’s special prosecutor, warning, “If you want adjournments, do not come to this court. Postponements will only be allowed in the event of a death.” 

He underscored that the Supreme Court would strictly adhere to legal norms without entertaining politically motivated arguments.

Special Prosecutor Zulfiqar Naqvi argued that they wanted to present confessional statements from other accused. 

In response, Sheikh Rashid’s counsel, Sardar Razzaq, countered that the referenced statements were already part of the case file.

Justice Kakar observed that Sheikh Rashid, a senior citizen and multiple-term parliamentarian, is not a flight risk.

Sardar Razzaq said, “The government seeks time and then blames the courts and the accused for delays.” He requested that the case be scheduled for hearing later this week.

However, the court directed that the hearing be held next week. In a firm message to the Punjab government, the bench clarified that unless legal protocols are followed, politically tinted arguments would not be entertained.

“Only decisions based on the law will be made in this court—come what may,” Justice Kakar declared.