Kasim Khan Calls for an End to Imran Khan's Isolation in Prison

Post by : Raina Nasser

Kasim Khan, the son of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has voiced deep concern regarding his father's treatment in Adiala Jail. He described the conditions as "inhumane isolation," which he argues does not align with standard security measures. His remarks come as speculation about Imran Khan’s health circulates widely, including unfounded claims of his death while in custody.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Kasim Khan noted that his father has been imprisoned for 845 days. He revealed that over the last six weeks, Imran Khan has been held alone in what is termed a "death cell," with no contact allowed with family members. He highlighted that, despite explicit court orders, visits from his sisters have been consistently denied, preventing communication from him or his brother.

Kasim Khan condemned this treatment, asserting that such isolation appears to be a calculated effort to obscure his father's well-being and keep the family unaware of his security. He cautioned that those responsible, including the Pakistani government, will face full responsibility for any repercussions stemming from this harsh confinement.

He appealed to international bodies and human rights organizations to take action. His requests included verification of Imran Khan's survival, compliance with court-ordered visitation rights, an immediate cessation of solitary confinement, and the release of the former Prime Minister, whom he claims is imprisoned solely for political reasons.

Aleema Khanum, Imran Khan's sister, corroborated that the family has encountered numerous challenges in visiting him. She indicated that for the past six to seven months, access to visits has been frequently restricted, with meetings inconsistently allowed or abruptly canceled, causing the family considerable distress.

Conversely, Adiala Jail officials have dismissed allegations of mistreatment and rumors regarding Imran Khan's death. They asserted in a statement that he is in "good health" and receiving necessary care, while also refuting claims about his transfer to another facility as unfounded.

Imran Khan has been in custody since August 2023, facing several charges that he argues are politically charged. Back in January, he was convicted in a corruption case, receiving a 14-year sentence, whereas his wife received a seven-year term. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party had previously claimed that he was subjected to solitary confinement in a death cell even prior to his conviction, amplifying concerns surrounding his treatment.

This turmoil has reignited discussions about the treatment of political figures in Pakistan, garnering attention from both national and international human rights advocates, as family members and supporters continue to call for evidence of life and fair treatment for Imran Khan.