Two sisters of former prime minister Imran Khan have been released from Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat Jail. The Punjab government withdrew their detention orders, ending weeks of confinement.
Dr. Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi returned home following the government’s decision. Their lawyer, Rana Mudassar, confirmed their release.
However, the development has brought only partial relief to the family. Aleema Khan, another sister of the former prime minister, remains in custody.
The detention orders against Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi were issued under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance. The authorities withdrew these orders, allowing both women to leave jail.
Why Were Imran Khan’s Sisters Arrested?
The three sisters of Imran Khan were detained in September 2026. Their arrests came as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) prepared for a march towards Islamabad.
Aleema Khan was taken into custody on September 20. Dr. Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi were arrested the following day, on September 21.
The authorities detained them under the 1960 Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance. This law is commonly known as 3 MPO.
Initially, their detention was approved for 30 days. However, the authorities extended the period by another 30 days on October 7.
The sisters remained detained at Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore during this period.
Allegations Against Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi
According to the September 20 detention order, the Lahore deputy commissioner raised concerns about their activities.
The police case linked both women to the May 9 protests and road blockades. It also accused them of encouraging party workers to damage government and public property.
Furthermore, the allegations included attempts to mobilise PTI supporters again. Authorities referred to social media activity and public gatherings in this regard.
These allegations formed part of the grounds cited for their detention.
What Does the 3 MPO Law Say?
The Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance gives authorities powers to detain individuals preventively. It applies when officials consider someone a potential threat to public safety or public order.
Under the law, authorities can impose detention for a specific period. They can also extend the detention under the prescribed legal conditions.
However, detention cannot exceed six consecutive months at a time. Cases involving detention beyond three months require judicial oversight.
The law also allows detained individuals to challenge their detention orders before the provincial government.
Aleema Khan Remains in Custody
Although Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi have been released, Aleema Khan remains behind bars. Her continued detention means the matter is not fully resolved.
The release of two sisters has brought some relief to Imran Khan’s family. However, attention remains focused on Aleema Khan’s legal situation.
The latest development also highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding PTI and its leadership.
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