Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar on Tuesday remarked that former military ruler Pervez Musharraf must avoid any situation where he might have to return to Pakistan in a disgraceful manner. The chief justice’s remarks came as he headed a three-member bench hearing the case related to National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO), passed by Musharraf in 2007. As the hearing went underway, Akhtar Shah, the counsel for former president told the court that he had talked to his client on September 27. “Musharraf has medical and security issues but he has promised that he will return,” Shah said. Further, the defence counsel contended that his client was not accused in the Lal Masjid case. “Musharraf has not been indicted,” Shah said. Responding to the former president’s lawyer, Justice Nisar said: “I had earlier told you that nobody will arrest Musharraf. He should record his statement in the treason case before a special court.” The top judge further remarked that the courts could not allow Musharraf to reject their authority. “If Musharraf will continue to stay abroad, we will keep issuing red warrants,” Justice Nisar said. During the hearing, Shah informed the bench that his client was suffering from an ailment of a serious nature. To this, Justice Nisar said that Musharraf should get his ailment treated. “I too am suffering from a painful backache. We have arrangements for top-of-the-line treatment for Musharraf’s ailment here,” he said. If Musharraf does not appear soon, he may have to appear in a disgraceful manner,” said the top judge as he reiterated the former ruler would be provided security upon return and assured that he would not be arrested. The hearing was then adjourned till October 11. Published in Daily Times, October 3rd 2018.