Islamabad, Dec 13 (IANS): The Islamabad Anti-Terrorist Court Friday granted former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf’s request for exemption from appearing before it in the judges’ detention case, and directed police to improve security arrangements.

The court adjourned the hearing to Dec 20, Dawn online reported Friday.

Anti-Terrorist Court (ATC) Judge Atiqur Rehman heard the case relating to the detention of superior court judges against Musharraf.

Musharraf’s counsel Ilyas Siddiqui and public prosecutor Nadeem Tabish were present in the court during the hearing. Siddiqui requested the judge for Musharraf's exemption from Friday's hearing, which was granted.

The application submitted by Musharraf’s counsel stated that it was perilous for the former army chief to appear in the court and the hearings should be held at a secure location.

A representative of the interior ministry informed the judge that an alternative location was being assessed for conducting the trial.

The court later directed police and the administration to ensure improved security.