Former chief minister of Punjab and President of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Chaudhry Pervez Elahi, was unable to attend a crucial court hearing on Tuesday pertaining to a case of illegal recruitment. The reason cited for his absence was a minor fracture sustained after a fall in the washroom of Adiala Jail just two days prior.

The court session, convened to advance proceedings in the case of illegal recruitment within the Punjab Assembly, was disrupted due to Elahi’s absence. Despite the anticipation of indictment proceedings, the court could not proceed as accused was not present.

In today’s hearing at the anti-corruption court in Lahore, the jail authorities failed to produce Elahi before the court, leading to a delay in the legal process. Deputy Superintendent Tahir of Adiala Jail presented Elahi’s medical report, confirming that the injury occurred on March 17 as a result of a fall in the washroom, resulting in a minor fracture.

Also read: Elahi seeks details of criminal cases, inquiries from LHC

Judge Arshad Hussain Bhatta presiding over the anti-corruption court adjourned further proceedings till April 4, acknowledging Elahi’s condition and the necessity to include the medical report in the court’s records. The court emphasised the importance of the accused’s presence for the next hearing to proceed with the indictment process.

Elahi was booked by the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab on charges of illegally recruiting a low-ranking officer as his principal secretary by misusing his powers when he was serving as the chief minister.