PTI Accuses Government of Holding Imran Khan in Solitary Confinement, Denying Basic Rights
Key Points:
- Allegations of Solitary Confinement:
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has accused the government of placing former Prime Minister Imran Khan in solitary confinement at Adiala Jail, claiming he is being held in the prison’s death cell. - Denial of Visitors:
PTI’s Central Information Secretary, Sheikh Waqas, stated during a press conference that Imran Khan has been denied visits from political allies, family members, and even his legal counsel, despite court orders permitting such meetings. - Contempt of Court Petition:
PTI has filed a contempt of court petition, alleging that authorities are disregarding judicial orders allowing six people to meet Imran Khan. Waqas highlighted that even Imran Khan’s wife and the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have been denied access. - Legal and Family Rights Violated:
Waqas emphasized that Imran Khan’s rights to consult with his lawyers and meet his family are being blocked. He also claimed that Khan is not allowed to sign power of attorney papers or access legal documents, hindering his ability to defend himself in numerous cases. - Health and Well-being Concerns:
PTI leaders raised concerns about Imran Khan’s health, stating that his medical consultations with his personal doctor have been denied. They also alleged that jail authorities are withholding his books and newspapers. - Criticism of Government’s Ramadan Package:
Waqas criticized the federal government’s Ramadan relief package, comparing it unfavorably to the Ehsaas programme under PTI’s tenure, which provided Rs. 15,000 per family. He noted that the current federal package offers only Rs. 5,000 per family, despite high inflation. - Call for Public Welfare:
Waqas urged the government to prioritize public welfare over personal publicity and avoid using authority for political bribery. - Imran Khan’s Resolve:
Despite the challenges, PTI leaders asserted that Imran Khan’s resolve remains strong and that he cannot be broken by such actions.
PTI has accused the government of violating Imran Khan’s basic rights by holding him in solitary confinement, denying him access to legal counsel, family, and medical care, and disregarding court orders. The party has filed a contempt petition and criticized the government’s approach to both Imran Khan’s detention and its Ramadan relief package. PTI leaders have vowed to continue fighting for Imran Khan’s rights and called for greater transparency and fairness in governance. The situation highlights the deepening political tensions in Pakistan and raises concerns about the rule of law and due process.