An anti-terrorism court (ATC) judge in the federal capital, Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain, on Saturday said he was "an extremely fearless person" who maintained a balanced approach, as he expressed displeasure over the absence of the investigation officer and the non-production of the case record in a case against lawyers Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha.

"Everyone in the bar and the legal fraternity knows who I am. No one can push me against the wall," the judge remarked during the hearing of a case pertaining to security breach and interference in official duties.

Judge Abul Hasnat said he was not affected by what people said about him and stressed that he knew how to maintain balance in his decisions. The court subsequently summoned the investigation superintendent of police (SP).

Lawyers Riyasat Ali and Aimal Mandokhail appeared on behalf of Mazari and Chattha, while prosecutor Naveed Kiyani was also present. "Tell me, who in the entire country grants bail against surety bonds of 5,000 rupees?" the judge asked.

He recalled telling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers to leave the court to protect them. The judge stated he would not take even a minute to decide the case once the record was produced.

The court summoned the Islamabad inspector general of police (IGP) for the next hearing and issued show-cause notices to the SP and deputy superintendent of police (DSP). The judge emphasized that his judicial conduct remains impartial despite external pressures or public discourse surrounding his courtroom proceedings.

He reiterated that the legal process must be respected by all law enforcement agencies, noting that the absence of records hinders the administration of justice. The legal representatives of the accused requested the court to expedite the proceedings, citing the ongoing detention of their clients.

The hearing has been adjourned until 3 November, with strict instructions for the police officials to ensure their presence and the submission of the required case files.