TV reporter records evidence in tribunal | Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)

Pakistan Press Foundation

TV reporter records evidence in tribunal

KARACHI, June 28: Only one state witness appeared before the Nishtar Park tribunal of inquiry on June 27 and proceedings were adjourned till June 28 after a very brief sitting. Mohammad Bin Yousuf, reporter of a television network, who was present in the press camp at the time of the blast, described the scene and stated that 40 to 50 persons were lying injured on the ground soon after the blast. He stated that due intensity of the blast, he fell down on his back, and got up after a few seconds and saw that smoke had engulfed stage and its surrounding.

To a question by AAG Sarwar Khan, he stated he could not pinpoint exact place of blast, but from his first-hand knowledge, it was 10 to 15 feet away from the stage. To another question, he said the press camp was seven to 10 feet away from stage. To a question by Jawaid Chattari, counsel for Pakistan Sunni Movement (PSM), the witness stated that he saw many persons with torn clothes, but did not see anyone with burnt clothes. He said on spot reporting was aired from the place of the incident while visuals were recorded and sent to office as small news packages.

To a question, he stated that cameraman Aziz was on duty with him and video footage was his (Aziz) work. After this, the AAG sought adjournment as no other state witness was present. The counsel for Pakistan Sunni Movement said once state side is completed, he would examine witnesses, including Shah Sirajul Haq, chief of the movement, besides 10 to 11 other witnesses.

The court also inquired from the AAG about the facility to measure intensity of sound from any scientific organization. According to witnesses, the sound varied. It was necessary to establish the strength of sound wave created due to the blast on scientific basis, observed the tribunal, directing the AAG to inquire as to which organization had the facility of such technical analysis.
Source: Dawn
Date:6/28/2006