An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) exempted Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader Farooq Sattar from appearing in court for the hearing of a hate speech case, DawnNews reported on Saturday.

Sattar, along with a number of other MQM leaders, is facing charges in connection with cases pertaining to the Aug 22 speech of MQM founder Altaf Hussain, which triggered a violent protest, arson attacks and ransacking of media houses.

In today's hearing, the prosecution was supposed to present a copy of the documents containing evidence regarding the case, however, the proceedings could not take place because of Sattar's absence.

Sattar's lawyer told the court that the MQM-P chief could not be present for the hearing due to medical problems and requested for exemption for his client.

While Sattar was granted exemption from appearing in court for this hearing, the ATC ordered his lawyer to ensure that the MQM-P leader appears in the next hearing of the case, while adjourning the hearing till February 3.

Sattar's presence is required in court for the next hearing so that he be able to receive copy of the evidence from the prosecution.

Other MQM leaders nominated in the case were present in court for the hearing today.