Lawyer sentenced to jail for disrespectful behavior towards judge in Lahore

Lahore High Court’s Chief Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan handed down a six-month jail term to a lawyer on Monday, finding him guilty of contempt of court for his disrespectful behavior towards a judge.

The matter was brought to the attention of Chief Justice Khan by Justice Sultan Tanvir Ahmad, who referred the case of Advocate Zahid Mahmood Goraya’s misconduct during a court session.

Following a show-cause notice issued under the Contempt of Court Ordinance 2003 and Article 204 of the Constitution, Goraya appeared before the court last week, offering an unconditional apology. However, Justice Khan proceeded with the contempt charges despite the apology.

In a statement to reporters, Goraya explained that his behavior was not premeditated but occurred impulsively. He claimed that the judge had initially accepted his apology and indicated the withdrawal of the reference against him.

During today’s hearing, Goraya, represented by LHC Bar Association President Asad Manzoor Butt, requested adjournment till after Eidul Fitr and reiterated his plea for forgiveness.

After a lengthy hearing, including testimonies from three witnesses, Goraya requested a break due to his diabetes condition, prompting a remark from the chief justice about the prevalence of diabetes. The LHC Bar Association president appealed for leniency, expressing willingness to seek forgiveness from Justice Tanvir as well.

However, Justice Khan emphasized his commitment to upholding the Constitution and subsequently sentenced Goraya to six months in prison, along with a fine of Rs100,000.