Lahore, Dec 2: The Pakistan government on Tuesday allowed Imran Khan’s sister to meet him in Adiala Jail after a large number of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters gathered outside the prison amid speculation over his health.
For over a month, an unannounced ban had prevented any meetings with the 73-year-old former prime minister, who has been imprisoned since August 2023 in multiple cases. The repeated refusal to let his family visit sparked rumours on social media about his condition.
Jail authorities have maintained that Imran Khan is in good health.
The PTI said in a statement that Khan’s sister, Dr Uzma Khan, was permitted to meet him on Tuesday. The party added that it remains to be seen whether authorities will honour their commitment in the future.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government deployed the entire Rawalpindi police force along Adiala Road to prevent PTI protests. Section 144, which bans gatherings of four or more people, is already in place in both Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Police officers from eight stations, along with senior officials, are stationed outside the jail. Authorities have sealed an eight-kilometre stretch around the area, closed schools and colleges, and restricted movement, requiring residents to show ID cards.
A group of lawyers also staged a demonstration outside the Islamabad High Court, protesting against the government’s decision to keep Imran Khan in isolation.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said Section 144 will be strictly enforced in both cities.
Amid the unrest, Khan’s son Kasim Khan demanded proof that his father is alive. The PTI has warned of nationwide protests if Khan’s sisters are not allowed regular access to him. His sisters have also stated that if anything happens to him, those responsible will face consequences from Pakistanis both at home and abroad.
