ISLAMABAD(National Times)- Islamabad High Court has dismissed a petition challenging the recording of witness statements in the Sana Yousaf murder case in the absence of the accused and his lawyer. The court rejected the application filed by accused Umar Hayat against the proceedings of the trial court. Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro issued a nine-page written verdict stating that no legal flaw, irregularity, or jurisdictional error was found in the trial court proceedings. The accused was present via video link, which is legally considered valid attendance, making the court’s order sheets correct and authentic. The verdict further highlighted that the trial court has a legal responsibility to conduct daily hearings to ensure speedy trials. Under Article 10-A, the right to a speedy trial is essential for the broader public interest. Lawyers are obligated to be available in court for the progress of the case rather than personal convenience. The court noted that allegations against judicial officers based merely on suspicion are not justified. It directed that in case of further delays, the accused should be provided a lawyer at state expense and instructed lawyers to refrain from making unverified claims against the trial court in the future. The petitioner had requested that since witness statements were recorded in the absence of the accused and his lawyer, those statements should be discarded and recorded again.