The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has requested details regarding the rationale behind PTI Chairman Imran Khan’s continued detention in jail, even after the suspension of his sentence.
During a hearing pertaining to his transfer to Attock Jail, the court sought clarification regarding the conditions and facilities available in the said prison. An Assistant Superintendent from Attock Jail appeared before the court.
Imran Khan’s legal counsel, Sher Afzal Marwat, appeared before the court and expressed dissatisfaction with the conditions within Attock Jail. He raised concerns about issues such as pest infestation and the absence of a proper roof where Imran Khan was being held.
Marwat also pointed out the absence of a B-class facility in the jail. He argued that security concerns did not justify Imran Khan’s transfer to Attock Jail and contended that Adiala Jail was actually more secure. He emphasized Imran Khan’s right to a B-class facility and requested the court to relocate the former prime minister to Rawalpindi’s facility.
Marwat alleged that Khan’s transfer to Attock Jail was not due to space constraints but rather an attempt to subject him to further distress. He also highlighted an incident involving Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, who faced potential legal issues when visiting him in jail.
However, the prosecutor disputed Marwat’s claims. The prosecutor stated that the B-class facility no longer existed in the jail and that Imran Khan was provided with better amenities. The prosecutor outlined the improvements made, including enhancements to the bathroom, installation of a commode, a 21-inch TV, and the provision of five newspapers.
The Assistant Advocate General informed the court that Imran Khan was provided with a bed, chair, 21-inch TV, and five newspapers. He added that Imran Khan received food prepared according to his preferences, including chicken and mutton cooked in desi ghee twice a week. Additionally, five doctors were appointed to attend to Imran Khan’s medical needs.
Chief Justice Amir Farooq acknowledged that Imran Khan was not currently serving his sentence as he was in custody for another case. The court inquired about the feasibility of transporting Khan from Attock Jail to court appearances due to the distance.
The Assistant Advocate General explained that the journey from Attock to Islamabad took approximately an hour and a half, with additional time required for the transportation vehicle.
The court adjourned the hearing and instructed Marwat to meet with Imran Khan on Thursday (today). The court also requested information regarding any notifications regarding the decision to keep Khan in Attock Jail, despite the suspension of his sentence.
The next hearing is scheduled for September 11. Imran Khan had been sentenced to five years in prison the previous month following his conviction in the Toshakhana case. Despite the suspension of his sentence, he remained in jail due to his rearrests on August 19 in the “cypher case.”