Islamabad High Court Bans Solitary Confinement for Imran Khan and His Wife

The Islamabad High Court has ruled to end solitary confinement for former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi, who are being held on corruption charges, instructing prison authorities to provide family visits and basic rights.

Details of the Court Ruling

In a decision announced by Islamabad High Court Justice Qadim Hussain Sumro, it was stated that Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi, held at Adiala Jail, will no longer be subjected to solitary confinement.

The court ordered prison authorities to facilitate proper meetings between Khan and his wife in accordance with the rules and to ensure regular gatherings with family members.

Rights to Communication with Family and Children

In line with the judicial decision, it was requested that necessary arrangements be implemented immediately to allow the 73-year-old former leader to make phone calls to his children.

Additionally, instructions were given to provide Imran Khan with daily newspapers and books, as well as regular healthcare services within the framework of prison rules.

Compliance Report and Audit Process

The superintendent of Adiala Jail was instructed to ensure the complete implementation of the court orders and to submit an official compliance report within fifteen days.

The case's application process was initiated following petitions submitted to the court by Imran Khan's sister Aleema Khan and Bushra Bibi's daughter Mubashara Khawar Maneka.

Legal Process and Health Debates

While Imran Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023, Bushra Bibi was first arrested in January 2024 and subsequently sent back to prison on various dates.

Last month, the Pakistan Supreme Court ruled that Khan be transferred to a private hospital due to health issues, though his transfer to a government hospital for security reasons had sparked debate.