Imran Khan’s sisters are demanding a thorough investigation into a police assault on them and supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) outside Adiala Jail. This incident took place last week, following the sisters’ attempts to see Khan, who has been imprisoned since August 2023.
Demands for Investigation
Noreen Niazi, Aleema Khan, and Dr. Uzma Khan formally complained to Punjab Inspector General of Police Usman Anwar about the “brutal assault” they and PTI supporters experienced. The sisters camped outside Adiala Jail after being denied a visit with their brother for a month.
Details of the Incident
- The sisters were reportedly manhandled and violently detained by police.
- They stated they were peacefully protesting the ongoing denial of access to Imran Khan.
- During the protest, streetlights were suddenly turned off, creating darkness around them.
- This led to what the sisters described as an “orchestrated assault” by police personnel.
Personal Accounts and Injuries
Noreen Khan recounted her painful experience, saying, “I was seized by my hair, thrown violently to the ground, and dragged, resulting in injuries.” The sisters emphasized that their actions were peaceful and lawful, causing no disruption to public order.
Ongoing Restrictions and Political Context
The PTI has accused the government of imposing a ban on meetings, affecting Imran Khan’s ability to receive visitors. Notably, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has repeatedly been denied access to Khan, despite several attempts to meet him in jail.
The sisters urged immediate disciplinary action against those involved in the assault, underscoring their commitment to a democratic protest. Their situation reflects broader issues regarding political freedoms and human rights in Pakistan during a time of intense division surrounding Imran Khan’s imprisonment.
