While hearing a contempt case on the news of the affidavit of former Gilgit-Baltistan chief judge Rana Shamim, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday ordered him to submit the list of witnesses by September 7, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

IHC Chief Justice Athar Minullah heard the case. “We have to clean this stain on the court. You have made an allegation in the affidavit. Now you have to prove it,” he said to Rana Shamim.

“As long as there is an affidavit, this court will not accept an unconditional apology. It is important that what is said is being said by whom. You have been a former chief judge; you must realise the seriousness of the matter,” he addressed Rana Shamim.

“If a common man commits such contempt of court, it will not be so serious. This affidavit has now become public, and it will affect the fair trial of cases pending in this court,” the IHC chief justice stated.

“If the affidavit was not published, it would be my personal document,” Rana Shamim said.

“This court will give you a full opportunity for a transparent trial. Call whoever you want to call as a witness; this court will not stop you,” the IHC chief justice assured him.

“Provide the details of your witnesses by September 7,” IHC Chief Justice Athar Minallah asked Rana Shamim and the additional attorney general.

“This court considers every accused innocent until convicted. This court will not ask from the journalist about his source. Maybe you will realise, and the court will give you a chance,” the IHC chief justice pointed out.

“I have realised that this affidavit should not have been made public,” Rana Shamim remarked.

The hearing was then adjourned till September 7.

Reporter: Ehtisham Kiyani