Imran Khan's Sister Granted Prison Visit Amid Health Concerns and Protests

Government Allows Family Visit Amid Rising Tensions

Lahore: On Tuesday, the Pakistani authorities permitted Dr. Uzma Khan, the sister of Imran Khan, to visit him in prison. This decision came after a significant number of supporters gathered outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, fueled by concerns regarding his health and safety.

For over a month, an unofficial ban had prevented visits to the 73-year-old former cricketer and politician, who has been incarcerated since August 2023 on various charges.

The lack of family visits led to rampant speculation on social media about his condition, with many questioning whether he was alive.

However, officials at Adiala Jail asserted that Khan is in "good health."

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party confirmed that Dr. Uzma was allowed to meet her brother, expressing cautious optimism about the government's commitment to uphold this arrangement.

In response to the gathering of PTI supporters, the Punjab government deployed the entire police force in Rawalpindi along Adiala Road to prevent protests.

Section 144, which prohibits gatherings of four or more individuals, has already been enforced in both Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Police presence has been heightened, with officers from eight police stations stationed outside Adiala Jail.

"An eight-kilometer area has been completely cordoned off. Schools and colleges are closed, and residents must present identification to access the region," a Punjab government official stated.

Additionally, a group of lawyers protested outside the Islamabad High Court, condemning the government's decision to isolate Imran Khan.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry emphasized that compliance with Section 144 would be strictly enforced in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

"Whether they gather at the Islamabad High Court or Adiala Jail, actions will be taken under Section 144 without bias," he asserted.

Earlier, Khan's son, Kasim Khan, called on the government to provide evidence of his father's well-being.

"We demand proof of Imran Khan's life," he posted on X.

The PTI has warned of nationwide protests if Khan's sisters are not allowed to visit him, with family members threatening repercussions if anything were to happen to him.