IHC orders end to Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi’s solitary confinement, allows calls with sons

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) declared the solitary confinement of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, unlawful, ordering jail authorities to immediately restore their family access, medical amenities and fundamental rights.

ISC Judge Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro issued the comprehensive 24-page detailed verdict disposing of two constitutional writ petitions filed by Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khanum, and Bushra Bibi’s daughter, Mubashra Khawar Maneka.

The petitioners had challenged the arbitrary isolation, denial of legal access, and inadequate medical supervision of both prisoners in Central Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi.

In his written judgment, Justice Soomro emphasised that while incarceration curtails personal liberty, it does not strip inmates of their constitutional guarantees to life, human dignity, and protection against unauthorized executive treatment under Articles 4, 9, and 14 of the Constitution.

The court noted that security arrangements cannot serve as a blanket justification to deprive prisoners of human contact or degrade custody into prolonged social isolation.

Key points from high court ruling

The court held that subjecting Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi to de facto solitary confinement without judicial authorisation violates the Pakistan Penal Code, the Prisons Act 1894, and the Pakistan Prison Rules 1978.

The Adiala jail superintendent was instructed to ensure neither prisoner is kept in unlawful isolation.

Family access and scheduled WhatsApp calls

The court ordered jail authorities to permit prescribed in-person meetings with family members and spouse in accordance with prison rules. Additionally, the verdict said, authorities must facilitate scheduled audio/video WhatsApp calls between Imran Khan and his sons.

Conditional call terms

The court specified that WhatsApp facilities are strictly for private family communication. If authorities find objective evidence that calls are recorded, broadcast, or used for political campaigning, the facility may be suspended with written justification, the verdict said.

Medical board recommendations and daily walk

Incorporating findings from PIMS Hospital medical boards — which noted severe anxiety, blood pressure fluctuations, and stress linked to prolonged isolation — the court directed that Khan be provided at least one hour of daily walk and exercise.

Books, media, and amenities

Authorities were directed to supply newspapers, magazines, books, and a functional television set as recommended by medical experts. Specific books presented to the court — including works on Allama Iqbal, Islamic history, science, and the Seerat-un-Nabi (PBUH)—must be delivered after routine security screening, the verdict said.

Uniform application to Bushra Bibi

The ruling explicitly extended all safeguards “mutatis mutandis” to Bushra Bibi, emphasising she received equal access to family visits, legal counsel, exercise, and reading materials.

Compliance deadline

 The verdict said that the Adiala jail superintendent must submit an official compliance report to the IHC Deputy Registrar (Judicial) within 15 days.