LHC seeks report on provision of basic necessities to Imran’s sisters in jail

LAHORE – The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday sought a report on the provision of medicines, clothing and other essential items to Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi, sisters of incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan. Justice Abhar Gul Khan directed the petitioners’ counsel to submit a clear, written list of the required items so that the court could determine which facilities should be allowed to the two women in custody.

The court was hearing petitions challenging the detention of Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi. The proceedings were initiated on a petition filed by Shahrez, son of Aleema Khan, with Advocate Rana Mudassar Umar appearing on behalf of the petitioner. During the hearing, the judge observed that clothes and medicines had previously been provided, but a subsequent claim suggested that the items had not been delivered. The counsel clarified that his position was that the supplies had been made pursuant to an earlier court order. He informed the court that miscellaneous applications had been filed seeking permission to provide Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi with medicines, clothes, books and other necessities. He also requested specific directions for the provision of medicines and reading material to Noreen Niazi.

The lawyer maintained that 19 days had passed without the requested medicines and clothing being supplied. In response, Justice Abhar Gul Khan observed that jail authorities would only be permitted to deliver items specifically approved by the court. The counsel also sought permission to send food items to the detainees. However, the court declined to allow food supplies and decided to seek a report on the miscellaneous applications concerning the requested necessities. When the lawyer requested a hearing on the main petitions challenging the detentions, the court indicated that the issue of providing medicines and clothing should be resolved first. It asked the counsel to decide whether he wished to pursue the miscellaneous applications initially or proceed with arguments on the principal cases. The court adjourned further proceedings on the petitions challenging the detention of Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi until October 12.

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