Imran Khan’s jail transfer likely amid rising protests
Imran Khan may be moved from Adiala Jail as supporter protests intensify
Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan might be shifted from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi because of ongoing protests by his supporters outside the prison. The decision is being considered by the Punjab provincial government in consultation with federal authorities. Officials said the situation has become tense, and the government wants to manage security and reduce disruption in the area around the jail.
One senior Punjab official told PTI, “The Punjab government is seriously considering moving Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan to another prison due to constant protests outside Adiala Jail.” District Jail Attock is being considered as a possible alternative location for Khan.
Ikhtiyar Wali, the Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Information, said that the ongoing demonstrations had disrupted the daily lives of residents living near the jail complex. He added that some PTI leaders want Khan to be transferred to another location, which is partly causing the unrest. Authorities are trying to manage the protests, which they claim are being used to create chaos under the guise of supporting the former prime minister.
The protests intensified after Khan’s family and lawyers were denied access to meet him. His sisters and supporters staged a demonstration outside the jail after the denial. The Punjab Police responded by using water cannons to disperse the crowd and seized several vehicles. The area was cleared after the early hours of Wednesday, but the situation has added to political tension in the city.
The PTI condemned the police action, calling it inhumane, especially as it affected women during harsh winter conditions. The party also accused authorities of denying Khan his basic rights as a prisoner, despite court orders allowing visits from family members and lawyers.
ALSO READ: 150 years of Vande Mataram: BJP, Congress clash over missing stanzas
Military criticism and political tension
The protests outside Adiala Jail are not the only challenge facing Khan. Last week, a senior Pakistani general criticized him for allegedly using the media to attack the armed forces. The general described Khan as “narcissistic” and “mentally sick.”
Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhary, the Director-General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pakistan’s army, warned that such acts would no longer be tolerated. He said that Khan’s actions were coming from a “delusional mindset” and that Khan believed his personal wishes were more important than those of the Pakistani state. Chaudhary added, “His ego, his wishes, and frustrations have increased to such an extent that he thinks the world would cease to exist without him.”
Imran Khan has been in jail since August 2023 and has faced several legal and political challenges since then. The denial of meetings with his family and lawyers, coupled with the ongoing protests, has increased tension in the country. The political party PTI continues to organize demonstrations and rallies to show support for Khan, which has added pressure on the government to find a solution to the unrest.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and a decision on shifting Khan to another jail could be announced soon. Moving him is seen as a way to reduce protests near Adiala Jail and ensure the safety of residents and law enforcement personnel in the area. Meanwhile, security forces are prepared to maintain order and prevent further escalation during demonstrations.
The situation highlights the ongoing political divide in Pakistan, with Imran Khan remaining a central figure in national politics. His supporters continue to demonstrate their loyalty, while the government seeks to balance law and order with public safety. The coming days are expected to be crucial, as officials weigh the decision on whether relocating Khan will calm tensions or further fuel political unrest.
Related News
