ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a detailed ruling emphasizing that Bushra Bibi, the wife of PTI leader Imran Khan, should not be subjected to unnecessary social seclusion. The court highlighted that legal detention should not infringe upon an individual’s inherent dignity and rights.
In its verdict, the court acknowledged that Bushra Bibi, as a close family member, falls under the category of affected parties as per Article 199 of the Constitution. The judges reiterated that constitutional petitions challenging administrative detention or measures remain valid even if other legal avenues are ongoing.
The court clarified that no new directives are being issued regarding Imran Khan’s medical evaluation or his transfer to a hospital at this stage, as these issues are already under review by the Supreme Court.
The IHC observed that reports from the jail authorities and a medical panel confirmed Imran Khan’s mental and physical strain due to prolonged isolation. The medical team had recommended regular contact with close relatives and access to reading materials to help manage his blood pressure and stress levels.
While recognizing that security considerations permit separation for safety reasons under Pakistan’s prison laws, the court stressed that complete social isolation of prisoners is not permissible.
The Adiala Jail administration reported that Imran Khan is permitted to move freely within a designated area comprising seven cells during daytime hours. It was also noted that an inmate orderly is assigned to assist him with daily needs like cooking and personal care.
However, the jail authorities informed the court that other inmates do not have access to the same area due to security concerns linked to Imran Khan’s status as a former Prime Minister and political figure.
The court ultimately directed authorities to put an end to any unnecessary social deprivation, provided that security and disciplinary standards are upheld within the prison.
