IHC Hearing on Imran Khan's Sister's Petition for Meeting

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) is set to resume hearings tomorrow regarding a petition filed by Noreen Niazi, the sister of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. She is seeking permission to meet her brother, who is currently incarcerated in Adiala Jail. This case has garnered significant attention, as it touches upon issues of personal rights, security, and the treatment of political figures within the judicial system.

The hearing will be conducted by a single bench led by Chief Justice Aamer Farooq. Noreen Niazi's counsel, Salman Akram Raja, has argued that the last time any family member or legal representative was allowed to meet Imran Khan was on October 3, 2024, during court proceedings held by the National Accountability Court. Since then, the family has been unable to see him due to a ban imposed by jail authorities, which they claim is based on an unjustifiable security alert.

During previous court sessions, the Additional Attorney General informed the court that the Government of Punjab had issued a directive to maintain heightened security measures due to a threat alert from the National Counter Terrorism Authority. This alert indicated potential security risks at Central Jail, Adiala, Rawalpindi. Consequently, the Deputy Superintendent of Adiala Jail confirmed that visitation rights for prisoners are completely restricted until October 18, 2024.

Noreen Niazi's counsel has raised concerns about her brother's health, specifically mentioning that Imran Khan is suffering from an ear ailment and urgently needs to consult his personal physician, Dr. Aasim Yousaf. However, the Additional Attorney General countered this by stating that Imran Khan receives daily medical examinations and that the jail's medical staff is equipped to provide necessary treatment.

Chief Justice Aamer Farooq acknowledged the importance of Imran Khan's health and safety, stating, "There is no cavil with the submissions of counsel for the petitioner that Imran is a national political leader and his safety and health is of utmost importance." However, he also emphasized the necessity of adhering to security protocols, noting that allowing one individual to visit while others are restricted would be discriminatory.

The Chief Justice directed the jail authorities to facilitate a meeting between Noreen Niazi and her brother as soon as the visitation ban is lifted. He also mandated that a report on Imran Khan's safety and medical condition be submitted before the next hearing.

This case highlights the delicate balance between individual rights and public safety, especially in the context of high-profile political figures. As the situation unfolds, it raises important questions about the treatment of prisoners and the implications of security alerts on personal freedoms. The upcoming hearing will be crucial in determining not only the fate of Noreen Niazi's petition but also the broader issues surrounding the rights of inmates in Pakistan.