Lahore: The Anti-Corruption Court Lahore on Wednesday granted a one-day exemption from personal appearance to former Punjab chief minister Parvez Elahi in a case related to alleged illegal recruitments in the Punjab Assembly.
The case was heard by Judge Javed Iqbal Warraich. Government lawyer Tanveer Chaudhry Advocate represented the prosecution. During the hearing, counsel for Parvez Elahi informed the court that the former CM was unwell and requested exemption from attendance. The judge accepted the plea and granted him relief.
At the same hearing, co-accused Ijaz, Zohaib, and Haider Shafqat filed acquittal applications. The court issued notices to the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) and instructed both parties to present arguments at the next session.
Similarly, on the acquittal application of another co-accused, Mukhtar Ranjha, the court directed the lawyers to submit their arguments. The judge emphasized that all sides must be heard before any decision is made.
The court later adjourned the proceedings until October 8, giving time for the prosecution and defense to prepare their cases.
The case against Parvez Elahi concerns allegations of irregular appointments in the Punjab Assembly during his tenure as chief minister. Authorities claim that the recruitments violated rules and procedures. Elahi has consistently denied wrongdoing, calling the charges politically motivated.
The exemption granted highlights the court’s acknowledgment of his health condition. However, the proceedings will continue as scheduled, with a decision on the acquittal pleas expected after arguments are heard.
This development marks another legal challenge for Parvez Elahi, who has faced multiple cases in recent months. The outcome of this case will likely have political as well as legal significance in Punjab’s political landscape.
In other news read more about: Parvez Elahi is granted post-arrest bail in a money laundering case by a special court in Lahore. Copy
