Pakistan court orders jail to allow Imran Khan calls, walks and reading material
Islamabad High Court bars solitary confinement for Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, ordering family calls, books and daily walks
Aamir Abbasi
Editor, Islamabad
Aamir; a journalist with 15 years of experience, working in Newspaper, TV and Digital Media. Worked in Field, covered Big Legal Constitutional and Political Events in Pakistan since 2009 with Pakistan’s Top Media Organizations. Graduate of Quaid I Azam University Islamabad.
The IHC said security concerns could not justify depriving prisoners of human contact and communication.
Reuters/File
Pakistan's Islamabad High Court has ordered prison authorities to end the solitary confinement of former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi.
The 24-page judgment directs Adiala Jail, where the couple are held, to provide family meetings, phone access and reading material.
What did Pakistan's Islamabad High Court order for Imran Khan?
The court ordered Adiala Jail to facilitate meetings between Khan, Bushra Bibi and family members, in line with the Constitution and law.
It also allowed Khan WhatsApp, audio and video calls to his sons, one hour of daily walking, newspapers, books and television access, all subject to security and medical board rules.
Why did the court rule against solitary confinement?
The court said security considerations could not be used to completely deprive a prisoner of human contact and communication. It ruled that Bushra Bibi should not be kept in illegal solitary confinement either, and that the same terms applying to Khan should extend to her where relevant.
The judgment ordered the provision of newspapers, magazines and books for Khan. Books on Allama Iqbal, the life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and history submitted by the petitioners are to be provided after security screening. Jail authorities were also directed to provide television facilities in accordance with the medical board's recommendations and applicable prison rules.
What happens next after the court's ruling?
The Superintendent of Adiala Jail was directed to ensure neither Khan nor Bushra Bibi is held in solitary confinement. A compliance report must be submitted to the court's Deputy Registrar (Judicial) within 15 days.
The petitions were filed separately by Aleema Khan, Khan's sister, who challenged his alleged solitary confinement, and Mubeen/Mubashira Khawar Maneka, who raised concerns over Bushra Bibi's alleged solitary confinement. Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro issued the written judgment, disposing of both petitions.
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