ISLAMABAD, JUNE 06 (DNA) – The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to appear before it within an hour in Asghar Khan case.

A three-mamber bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib conducted hearing of the case. “Those who were accused of receiving money have been issued notices. Where is Mr Nawaz Sharif?” asked the CJP over his absence.

“His notice was collected by his security officer. Contact him and ask him to reach court within an hour,” directed the CJP.

“Did you take the money?” CJP asked from Javed Hashmi. “I obtained your notice and appeared today though it wasn’t necessary however; I came in respect of the judiciary. The case accuses that ISI gave money to some people and politicians have been named. I do not have any idea about this.

I was acquitted after five-year jail. The real clash was between PML-N and PPP. Politicians are used and then thrown away. I have been falsely accused. FIA has also interrogated the allegation against me,” he said.

“Whoever is accused of receiving money will appear before the court. They are a part of investigation. Retired army officers will also have to face trial. We will not delay this case. The accused should provide an explanation as they are being given a chance. Don’t lament afterwards,” remarked the CJP.

“Khurshid Shah is in Karachi and his name is not among the recipients of money,” said his lawyer Aitzaz Ahsan. “Abida Hussain got the notice late,” said the lawyer.

On Tuesday, the apex court’s Registrar Office issued notices to 31 persons and directed Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supreme leader Nawaz Sharif to appear before the court in personal capacity.

The individuals who were issued notices include; Abida Hussain, Altaf Hussain, Javed Hashmi, Jam Mashooq, Ajmal Khan, Afaq Ahmad, Khursheed Shah, Ghulam Mustafa Khar, Sirajul Haq, Secretary Interior, Defense and DG FIA.