The Islamabad High Court (IHC) concluded proceedings on Tuesday regarding a petition filed by Bushra Bibi, the wife of ex-premier Imran Khan, seeking her transfer from Banigala residence to Adiala Jail. The plea was disposed of after Bushra Bibi’s counsel failed to appear before the court, marking a significant turn in the ongoing legal saga surrounding her imprisonment.
Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb presided over the proceedings, expressing dissatisfaction at the absence of Bushra Bibi’s legal representatives. Notably, the former first lady was taken into custody on January 31 following a sentencing of 14 years in jail, alongside Imran Khan, in the Toshakhana reference by an Islamabad accountability court.
Despite the suspension of their sentences in the Toshakhana reference by the IHC on April 1, Bushra Bibi remained incarcerated due to other pending cases. Her request for transfer from the Banigala residence, declared a sub-jail via a late-night notification, has been a subject of contention for weeks.
Previously, Bushra Bibi challenged the sub-jail status, advocating for completing her sentence in Adiala Jail. However, the Adiala Jail administration opposed the transfer, citing security concerns due to overcrowding.
In a recent development, Bushra Bibi filed another petition alleging violations of her fundamental rights during her detention at Banigala. However, the absence of her legal representation drew ire from Justice Aurangzeb, who remarked on the apparent disregard for the proceedings.
The judge criticized the absence of Bushra Bibi’s counsels, highlighting the gravity of the matter at hand. He underscored the importance of legal representation and expressed disappointment at the lack thereof.
Furthermore, Justice Aurangzeb commented on the political undertones surrounding the case, stating that politics should not influence judicial proceedings. He noted the absence of PTI lawyer Shoaib Shaheen, further emphasizing the need for professionalism and adherence to legal procedures.
The court session concluded without a decision on the transfer petition, underscoring the challenges and complexities surrounding Bushra Bibi’s legal battle. The absence of legal representation raises questions about the future trajectory of the case and the fate of Bushra Bibi’s plea for jail transfer.