No-trust in judge

RAWALPINDI - The seven accused, arrested in Pakistan in connection with Mumbai attack, Saturday expressed no trust in Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Rawalpindi Number 3 Judge Shahid Raffique. According to details, defence counsel Khawaja Sultan submitted an application with ATC No 3 Judge Shahid Raffique, raising objection on his decision regarding the constitution of judicial commission to send India to record the statements of Indian officials including doctors who remained in touch with accused and injured persons in Mumbai attack. Shahid Raffique, while taking up the case at Adyala Jail, observed that defence counsel could challenge the decision in Lahore High Court, Rawalpindi bench, if he had objection. In reply, Khawaja Sultan, lawyer for Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi and six other accused in Mumbai attack case, expressed his dissatisfaction over ATC No 3 Judge Shahid Raffique and alleged the judge was working under the influence of Pakistans interior ministry, prosecution and the Indian government. Khawaja Sultan sought the judge to be changed, claiming he could not expect justice from him. Judge Shahid Raffique, after completion of defence lawyers arguments and filing of application, adjourned the hearing till September 17, 2011.

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