Pakistan is reportedly considering relocating former Prime Minister Imran Khan from Adiala Jail. This potential move comes in response to ongoing, persistent protests by his supporters outside the facility. The situation escalated recently when Khan’s family and legal team were denied visitation, leading to clashes and a strong reaction from his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Officials from the Punjab government have indicated that a decision regarding Khan’s transfer is imminent, with consultations underway between provincial and federal authorities. District Jail Attock is being discussed as a potential alternative location. A senior government official stated that the continuous demonstrations have significantly disrupted the lives of residents in the vicinity of Adiala Jail. There are also claims that some PTI leaders are advocating for his transfer, believing the current protests are intended to create further chaos.
The denial of meetings on Tuesday triggered immediate protests by Khan’s sisters and supporters. Authorities responded by using water cannons to disperse the crowds and impounded several vehicles in the early hours of Wednesday, eventually clearing the area. The PTI has vehemently condemned the police action, alleging that Khan’s family was denied access despite court orders. The party decried the use of water cannons against women during cold weather as ‘inhumane’ and accused the government of violating Khan’s fundamental prisoner rights.
This development follows recent strong accusations against Khan by a senior Pakistani military official. The Director-General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhary, accused Khan of orchestrating a media campaign against the armed forces. He characterized Khan as ‘narcissistic’ and ‘mentally sick,’ warning that such actions would no longer be tolerated and attributing the behavior to a ‘delusional mindset’ driven by ego.