In a dramatic press conference today, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders have alleged that former Prime Minister Imran Khan is being held under extremely harsh conditions at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. According to PTI’s Central Information Secretary, Sheikh Waqas Akram, Khan is confined to a “death cell”—a unit typically reserved for terrorists—and is subjected to solitary confinement with no access to family, legal counsel, or even basic communication materials.
Sheikh Waqas Akram detailed that Khan has been denied visits by his legal team, political allies, and even family members, despite a court ruling that had permitted six designated visitors to meet with him. “Even his wife has been denied meetings on two separate occasions without any explanation from the authorities,” he stated. PTI officials claim that such measures are not only unprecedented but are being used deliberately to break Khan’s will and isolate him from any form of support.
The PTI representative further noted that Khan’s inability to interact with his lawyers is deeply concerning given the plethora of legal cases pending against him. “With over 180 cases against him, how is he expected to mount a defense when even basic legal consultations are being blocked?” asked Sheikh Waqas, adding that the government’s actions blatantly disregard the rights guaranteed to a detainee under Pakistani law.
Additional allegations include claims that Khan’s cell is being stripped of essential amenities. PTI leaders assert that not only is he isolated from family and legal representation, but his access to necessary legal documents, books, newspapers, and even medical consultations has also been restricted. Reports indicate that even though a court order had allowed his personal physician to visit him, the doctor was denied entry while only government-appointed doctors—whom PTI accuses of providing biased assessments—were allowed to examine him.
Critics argue that these conditions could have severe implications for Khan’s health. PTI insists that the isolation, coupled with the denial of proper legal and familial contact, is designed to exert psychological pressure on Khan, ultimately aiming to undermine his political resilience and diminish his influence.
In response to these allegations, PTI has taken legal action by filing a contempt petition against the authorities for failing to adhere to the court’s orders regarding visitation rights. PTI leaders claim that this move is necessary to compel the government to honor Khan’s rights and to ensure that he receives the legal and medical support he is entitled to. “We are fighting against a system that is blatantly targeting our leader. These oppressive measures are part of a broader political vendetta to silence dissent and weaken our democratic movement,” declared Sheikh Waqas.
The PTI’s stance comes amid broader political turmoil, where Khan’s detention and the harsh treatment he faces are viewed by his supporters as politically motivated. Recent reports by several national outlets have echoed these concerns, noting that despite assurances by the government about Khan’s well-being, the restrictions imposed raise serious questions about the transparency and fairness of his detention conditions.
While PTI leaders have vocally condemned these measures, the government has yet to provide a detailed response addressing the specific allegations of solitary confinement and denial of access. In previous statements, government officials have asserted that all detainees are treated in accordance with legal protocols. However, the mounting evidence and the emotional pleas from Khan’s family and supporters suggest a growing disconnect between official accounts and the on-ground reality as described by PTI.
As the political debate intensifies, the international community and human rights observers are watching closely. With accusations of judicial and executive overreach, critics warn that the situation not only undermines the rule of law in Pakistan but also sets a dangerous precedent for the treatment of political dissenters.
Stay tuned to The Pakistan Informer for further updates as this story continues to develop.
