In a significant development, Pakistani officials are reportedly weighing the transfer of former Prime Minister Imran Khan from Adiala Jail. This potential relocation is a direct consequence of continuous protest activities by his supporters outside the prison. The situation intensified following a recent incident where Khan’s family and legal representatives were denied a meeting, leading to clashes and condemnation from his party, PTI.
A senior Punjab government official disclosed that the provincial administration is actively considering moving Khan to another facility, with District Jail Attock being a primary option. Consultations with federal authorities are ongoing. The official emphasized that the persistent protests have disrupted the local community and suggested that some PTI figures see a transfer as a way to de-escalate tensions or perhaps gain leverage. The claim was made that chaos is being deliberately manufactured under the guise of protest.
Tuesday saw a sharp escalation in tensions after prison authorities refused to permit Khan’s sisters and lawyers access to him. This refusal prompted an immediate protest. Police were deployed and utilized water cannons to disperse the demonstrators, also seizing vehicles in the process. The PTI has strongly denounced the police intervention, stating that Khan’s family was barred from seeing him despite court orders. The party labeled the use of water cannons in harsh winter weather on women as ‘barbaric’ and accused officials of obstructing Khan’s fundamental rights.
This news follows a week of severe criticism directed at Khan by a prominent Pakistani military figure. Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhary, the head of the army’s media wing, accused Khan of masterminding a media campaign against the military, describing him as ‘narcissistic’ and mentally unwell. The DG ISPR warned that such provocations would not be tolerated, attributing Khan’s actions to an ego-driven delusion and a distorted perception of his influence, especially as he remains incarcerated.