HAMAYUN BUTT Versus THE STATE

ORDER

The petitioners have moved this petition for bail under sections 497/498, Cr.P.C. in a case registered against them under Articles 3 and 4 of the Prohibition (Enforcement of Hadd) Order, 1979, at Police Station‑Tibbi City, Lahore vide F.I.R. No. 380 of 1987, dated 19th July, 1987.

2. Learned counsel argued that on 16th January, 1988 direction was issued to the learned trial Court to dispose of the trial of the petitioners within two months' time. Learned counsel contended that despite the issuance of the direction, no evidence has been produced and no progress in the case has been made. Learned counsel stated that even the trial has not commenced so far. Learned counsel contended that even the case was adjourned by the learned Duty Magistrate. Learned counsel for the State has not been able to explain as to why the order of the High Court was not followed by the learned trial Court, Mr. S.M. Zubair, learned Additional Advocate- General has appeared. He has suggested that the petitioners may be directed to provide surety bonds of substantial amount. Accordingly, the petitioners are admitted to bail in the sum of Rs.2,00,000 (Rupees two lacs) each with two sureties each in the like amount to the satisfaction of the Assistant Commissioner, Lahore.

3. The learned trial Court is directed to explain as to why the earlier order of the High Court was not followed. The direction issued in the case vide order, dated 6th January 1988 still stands and the trial Court shall see to it that the trial is concluded in the light of the observation already made.

S.A./H‑66/L Bail allowed.