Islamabad High Court Dismisses Plea in Sana Yousaf Murder Case

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has dismissed a petition filed by Umar Hayat, the accused in the murder case of TikToker Sana Yousaf, challenging the recording of a witness statement in his absence and that of his counsel. The decision was delivered in a detailed nine-page judgment authored by Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro.

According to the judgment, the court found no legal flaw, irregularity, or jurisdictional defect in the order issued by the trial court. The petition had questioned the validity of the proceedings, particularly the recording of a witness statement when the accused and his lawyer were not physically present in court.

The IHC clarified that Umar Hayat had attended the proceedings via video link, which the court deemed as legally valid presence. The judgment further stated that court order sheets are considered correct and authentic unless proven otherwise.

Justice Soomro emphasized the importance of expeditious justice, noting that trial courts are legally required to conduct day-to-day hearings to ensure early disposal of cases. The judgment also highlighted that the right to a fair and speedy trial, as enshrined in Article 10A of the Constitution, is not only a right of the accused but also of the complainant and society at large.

The court's decision upholds the trial court's approach and reiterates the judiciary's commitment to timely justice. The plea by Umar Hayat has therefore been rejected, allowing the trial to proceed without further delay.