Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Amid growing concerns over the health of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who remains in jail, members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) staged a protest outside the Islamabad High Court on December 2, raising slogans demanding justice and political reforms.
The former PM has reportedly had no contact with anyone for nearly a month, prompting calls for immediate steps to ensure his well-being.
As demonstrations were held in Islamabad, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry said Section 144 was strictly enforced in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi, where PTI planned protests, Dawn reported.
The provision allows authorities to prohibit gatherings of four or more people for a limited period. Security was tightened in Rawalpindi, with checkpoints on routes to Adiala jail and road closures leading to Islamabad’s Red Zone.
Chaudhry said Section 144 was imposed “in light of intelligence reports,” claiming “terrorists look for instances [which they can use] to spread fear and make headlines; be it political gathering, courts or important places or offices.”
He added that terrorist groups often use social media and virtual private networks (VPNs) to conceal communication.
On questions about shifting Imran Khan from Adiala jail to a new facility in Islamabad, Chaudhry said it was too early to comment, noting the jail was nearing completion and staff training would be required.
Meanwhile, Imran Khan’s sister, Dr Uzma Khanum, told the media after a 20-minute meeting with her brother in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, “He is all right… but he was angry about being mentally tortured. He is locked in his cell all day… can only step out for short periods. And he can’t communicate with anyone.”