Psychiatric evaluation for Oscar Pistorius

Pretoria - Murder-accused Oscar Pistorius will be sent for psychiatric observation, the North Gauteng High Court ordered on Wednesday.

"I am satisfied that a case has been laid out... and I shall grant that order," Judge Thokozile Masipa said, granting the State's application.

"A proper inquiry... would ensure that the accused gets a fair trial."

Pistorius stood emotionless as Masipa spoke.

Masipa said she was aware this would cause more delays, but said it was not about convenience but whether justice was served.

She said the idea was not to punish Pistorius and the possibility of him being an out-patient should be investigated.

On Monday, forensic psychiatrist Merryll Vorster told the court Pistorius had general anxiety disorder. Based on this the State applied to have him referred.

Pistorius is charged with murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. He shot her dead through the locked door of his toilet in his Pretoria home on 14 February last year.

Pistorius has denied guilt, saying he thought she was an intruder about to open the door and attack him. The State contends he shot her during an argument.