KARACHI: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has demanded clarification from the prosecution regarding the legal and scientific validity of chemical samples and the confession of Rehman alias Bhola in the Baldia Town factory fire case.
The directives came during a hearing concerning the death penalty appeals filed by the convicts, alongside a separate appeal by Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) challenging certain observations made by the Sindh High Court (SHC).
Court Questions “Chemical Fire” Claim
During the proceedings, the apex court raised serious questions over the prosecution’s long-standing claim that the factory was set ablaze using chemicals. The court inquired about the foundation of this claim, asking if anyone had actually seen the accused, Zubair, starting the fire, or if any video evidence to that effect was presented before the trial court. Highlighting loopholes in the investigation, the court further questioned how the prosecution managed to collect chemical samples three years after the incident when no immediate traces were found. The bench has now sought a detailed explanation regarding the legal and scientific standing of these samples.
While the state counsel maintained that evidence had been duly submitted, Advocate Hassan Sabir, representing MQM-P, countered that no such evidence exists on the trial record.
The Legal Standing of Rehman Bhola’s Confession
The Supreme Court also turned its focus toward the confessional statement of the prime accused, Rehman alias Bhola. The court noted that while Bhola confessed to his affiliation with the MQM and admitted to several illegal activities in his statement, no other First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered against him based on those admissions. Consequently, the court has sought a formal response regarding the legal weight and status of Bhola’s confession.
MQM-P Objects to SHC Observations
Representing MQM-P, Barrister Farogh Naseem and Member of National Assembly (MNA) Hassan Sabir Advocate appeared before the court, while Faisal Siddiqui attended via video link from the Karachi Registry.
Barrister Naseem argued that the Sindh High Court had passed harsh remarks against MQM-P in its appellate judgment without giving the political party a fair hearing.
Case Status: The convicts, Rehman Bhola and Zubair, are currently appealing their death sentences. Concurrently, MQM-P is contesting the SHC’s observations. During Wednesday’s hearing, the apex court thoroughly reviewed witness statements, evidence, and the overall investigation process before adjourning the session until Thursday.
