The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued notices to several officials, including the interior secretary, secretary of law, Punjab Home Department, and the superintendent of Adiala Jail, in response to a petition regarding the withdrawal of prison facilities from former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard a petition filed by Noreen Niazi. Advocate Shoaib Shaheen represented the petitioner, arguing that Imran Khan, founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has had his B-class prison facilities unjustly revoked.
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The petition claims that Khan’s access to newspapers, television, and exercise has been denied, and electricity to his cell has been cut off. Additionally, it alleges that he is not allowed to communicate with his children via phone. Shaheen stated that these actions violate court orders and emphasize that imprisonment should not equate to a denial of fundamental human rights.
The court allowed the petitioner’s lawyer to present relevant court orders regarding Khan’s facilities and instructed both parties to appoint authorized officers to appear with the necessary records.
On the same day, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur warned the federal government about Khan’s treatment in prison, stating he had received concerning reports from Khan’s sisters about inadequate meals and lack of exercise. Gandapur declared, “I am warning the federal government that if Imran Khan is not treated well, everyone should be prepared for a reaction,” emphasizing the need for the former prime minister’s rights to be respected.
In response to allegations from PTI leaders about Khan’s conditions, Adiala Jail authorities maintained that he is receiving all amenities entitled under B-Class jail regulations, including uninterrupted electricity, proper meals prepared by a professional cook, and opportunities for exercise.
