With the country riveted on the sensational case that could have far-reaching ramifications, a business tycoon has told the Pakistan Supreme Court that he would present evidence against the son of Chief Justice "that will be like bombs".
The case involves Chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry's son Arsalan Iftikhar, who has been accused of having been paid up up to Rs 400 million by a real estate tycoon Malik Riaz Hussain, said to be under treatment in London. The money was allegedly paid to influence cases in the apex court.
When the case broke out, the tough Chief Justice took suo motu notice of the allegations and he set up a three-member bench to hear the case. Initially he headed the bench and later he recused himself.
The Pakistani media is having a field day as the case takes twists and turns. TV channels alleged last night that the tycoon possessed photos and videos of Arsalan's visit to London during 2009-11.
Arsalan today filed an application in the apex court seeking registration of FIR against Hussain, owner of Bahria Town real estate firm for alleging he possessed proof of his visit to London that was paid for by the tycoon's relatives.
Arsalan described the allegations as "character assassination" and sought security and directions for registration of FIR against the tycoon. The court registry directed him to make application to bench.
On his part, tycoon's counsel Zahid Bukhari told the court that Hussain would return to Pakistan with evidence against Arsalan.
"He is bringing with him evidence that will be like bombs. He will have very big news for the media. This request for registering an FIR against my client is a conspiracy to pressure him from not making a statement in court," Bukhari said.
Hussain is determined to appear in court "even if 10 FIRs are registered" against him, Bukhari said.
During the court proceeding today, when a two-judge bench heard the matter, Arsalan was pulled up for his utterances in the courtroom.
At one point, Arsalan said he and Hussain should be included in the Exit Control List, which contains the names of people barred from leaving the country.
The bench said he could not be permitted to speak in such a manner.The bench also pulled him up for addressing the judges directly instead of through his lawyer.
Following his request for security, the judges directed the Attorney General and Interior Secretary to give him protection.
According to Pakistani media reports, the expenses for several trips by Arsalan to London and Monte Carlo were paid by members of the tycoon's family.
Most of the cases in the apex court involving Hussain and Bahria Town are related to alleged irregularities in real estate deals.
The powerful businessman has close ties with politicians and the military.
