Islamabad, April 15, 2024: Bushra Bibi, the spouse of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has lodged a petition with the Islamabad High Court (IHC) alleging infringements of her fundamental rights during her detention at Banigala sub-jail.
In her plea, Bushra Bibi asserted that she had been subjected to poisoning and psychological torment while confined at her Banigala residence, which has been designated as a sub-jail. She claimed to be experiencing symptoms such as heartburn and throat and mouth pain, which she attributes to consuming a toxic meal.
Moreover, Bushra Bibi highlighted discomfort with the gender composition of the staff at the sub-jail, stating that only one female staff member is present while the remainder are male. She also raised concerns about privacy violations, alleging the presence of bugs and spy cameras in her confined quarters.
Furthermore, Bushra Bibi lamented insufficient opportunities to meet with her family members and legal counsel. She disclosed a pending petition requesting her transfer to Adiala Jail for a presumably safer environment.
In response to these allegations, Bushra Bibi implored the court to intervene and ensure the protection of her fundamental rights. Additionally, she requested permission for a medical examination at Shaukat Khanam Memorial Hospital.
Meanwhile, in the ongoing Iddat case, the counsel representing complainant Khawar Farid Maneka continued arguments supporting the conviction and sentencing of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi.
Salman Akram Raja, representing Mr. Khan, urged the court to expedite the proceedings, accusing the opposing counsel of employing delaying tactics. Raja Rizwan Abbasi, representing Mr. Maneka, countered by citing key witnesses in the case and expressed the need for more time to conclude arguments.
Judge Shahrukh Arjumand, acknowledging the workload due to recent Eid holidays, adjourned the hearing until April 24.
The proceedings shed light on the complex legal battle surrounding the Iddat case and Bushra Bibi’s petition, underscoring the ongoing legal challenges faced by the former prime minister and his associates.