In a landmark decision, Lahore High Court Chief Justice Shahzad Ahmad Khan handed down a six-month prison sentence to lawyer Zahid Mahmood Goraya for contempt of court. The verdict, delivered under the Contempt of Court Ordinance 2003 and Article 204 of the Constitution, marks a significant step in upholding the sanctity of judicial proceedings.
Advocate Zahid Mahmood Goraya was present in the courtroom when the chief justice pronounced the conviction, citing misconduct during proceedings. The court, unswayed by appeals for leniency, also imposed a fine of Rs100,000 on the lawyer.
Following the court’s ruling, law enforcement officials promptly arrested Goraya and escorted him to jail to commence his sentence.
The decision to prosecute Goraya stemmed from a reference submitted by Justice Sultan Tanvir Ahmad, highlighting Goraya’s alleged misbehavior in court. Despite attempts to reconcile, the chief justice proceeded with the indictment after Goraya declined to issue an apology.
The prosecution was led by Punjab Prosecutor General Farhad Ali Shah, tasked with presenting the case against Goraya.
In response to the conviction, Goraya expressed his deep respect for the judiciary and claimed to have previously extended an unconditional apology to Justice Ahmad. However, the court remained steadfast in its decision, emphasizing the seriousness of contempt charges.
The Lahore High Court Bar Association has yet to issue a formal response to the verdict, indicating a reserved stance on the matter.
The sentencing of Goraya underscores the judiciary’s commitment to maintaining decorum and adherence to legal norms within court proceedings. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of undermining the authority of the judiciary, ensuring the integrity and impartiality of the legal system.
