Tensions are flaring once again outside Adiala Jail as Imran Khan's sisters are staging a fresh protest, highlighting a complex situation with significant implications.
On Tuesday, Imran Khan's sisters, Noreen Khan, Aleema Khan, and Dr. Uzma, along with other PTI leaders, were denied a meeting with the PTI founder, prompting them to stage a sit-in outside Adiala Jail. This denial led to increased police presence and preparations for a possible operation. According to reports, the family members and lawyers were stopped at the Factory Naka checkpoint, and as the official meeting hours expired, they were again denied entry. Aleema Khan, leading the protest, demanded that Imran Khan be examined by his personal physicians instead of government-appointed medical staff.
Aleema Khan stated that the protest was not directed at the police, describing them as “our brothers,” but rather at the situation itself. She alleged that family meetings with Imran Khan had been suspended for weeks, claiming that the former prime minister was being subjected to “mental torture.” She also questioned what constituted “political discussion” and criticized the decision to keep him in solitary confinement. She further urged journalists to ask responsible questions.
Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, PTI Chairman, emphasized that meeting the party founder was their legal right, as the Islamabad High Court had ordered access for family and lawyers. He noted that political disagreements should not escalate into hostility and expressed hope that the situation would improve once meetings with Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi resumed. The National Assembly Speaker also supported the resumption of meetings, and Imran Khan had authorized Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Allama Raja Nasir to lead political dialogue. Gohar stressed the need to end the language of confrontation.
But here's where it gets controversial... Police increased their presence at the Factory Naka checkpoint as the protest gained momentum. Female officers were deployed, and streetlights on Adiala Road near the sit-in were switched off. Prison vans and water-cannon vehicles were brought in as precautionary measures. Officials stated that they were evaluating options to disperse the crowd if necessary, and the administration maintained that they would take necessary steps to uphold law and order.
This development followed Information Minister Ataullah Tarar's announcement ruling out meetings between PTI leaders and Imran Khan’s family last week, accusing Dr. Uzma of foul play. He warned that anyone attempting to create law-and-order disruptions outside the jail would face legal action.
And this is the part most people miss... High security measures were in place around Adiala Jail. Commercial centers and educational institutions were closed. A special two-shift security plan was implemented, with over 1,200 police personnel deployed, including officers from 20 police stations, 8 DSPs, and 2 SPs. Also present were 48 female commandos, 6 lady inspectors, and teams from various forces. SP Saddar Anum Sher supervised the security operation, and SSP Operations Tariq Malik inspected the arrangements. Earlier, a five-member medical team from PIMS Hospital conducted a full medical examination of the PTI founder.
This situation raises several questions: Do you believe the authorities are justified in denying family meetings? What are your thoughts on the allegations of mental torture? Share your opinions in the comments below!
