The Delhi High Court on Tuesday refused directions to delay court proceedings regarding scheduling of dates in the Shraddha Walker murder case. This comes after Aaftab Amin Poonawala, the accused, claimed that the speedy trial caused him prejudice.

Poonawala’s counsel urged the apex court to mandate that crucial witnesses be examined only in the presence of the lead defense counsel, allowing sufficient time for cross-examination preparations. The lawyer raised his objections to the speed of the trial, citing professional inconvenience.

Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri responded by saying that professional grievances cannot justify delays in the trial. He commended the trial court for scheduling proceedings on ten dates per month despite the workload. The Supreme Court clarified that it would not instruct the district court to adjust its schedule for the convenience of defense counsel.

(With input from agencies.)