A sessions court in Lahore on Monday reserved its verdict in a Rs1 billion defamation suit filed by Ali Zafar against fellow artist Meesha Shafi.
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Additional District and Sessions Judge Asif Hayat concluded the hearing after both parties presented their final arguments. The court observed that a detailed review of the case record was required before announcing the judgment, which could be delivered if finalized within court hours, otherwise a new date will be set.
Counsel for Ali Zafar, Umar Tariq Gill, argued that the allegations of sexual harassment levelled by Meesha Shafi were false and had severely damaged his client’s reputation. He urged the court to accept the claim and award Rs1 billion in damages.
Representing Meesha Shafi, Saqib Jilani contended that the plaintiff failed to provide concrete evidence to support the defamation claim. He argued that his client consistently maintained her stance regarding the alleged incidents, even under extensive cross-examination, and should not be penalized for raising her concerns.
The case dates back to 2018, when Ali Zafar filed the defamation suit, stating that the allegations had tarnished his public image and caused distress to him and his family.
The court’s decision is now awaited in a case that has drawn significant public attention in Pakistan’s entertainment and legal circles.
