The Punjab government has informed the Lahore High Court (LHC) that Aleema Khan was provided with basic facilities and essential items during her detention at Kot Lakhpat Jail.
Aleema was detained on September 20 after the Lahore deputy commissioner ordered her detention under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance.
The detention came amid reports of a crackdown on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers and leaders ahead of the party’s September 27 nationwide protest and march towards Islamabad. The PTI has said the protest is aimed at demanding the release of Imran Khan and calling for the supremacy of the Constitution.
During the hearing of a petition filed by Aleema’s son, Shahraiz Khan, Assistant Advocate General Farrukh Khan Lodhi submitted a report on behalf of the superintendent of Kot Lakhpat Jail.
According to the report, jail authorities provided Aleema with a bedsheet, blanket, shoes, six suits and a towel. She was also given face wash, a toothbrush, a skincare kit and a shawl.
After reviewing the government’s report, Justice Abher Gul Khan disposed of the petition.
The court also directed the home secretary to decide, in accordance with the law, on the petitioner’s request for permission to meet Aleema.
Aleema’s detention was followed by the detention of Imran Khan’s sisters, Dr Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi, for 30 days ahead of the PTI’s September 27 protest and march to Islamabad.
In an order issued on September 20, the Lahore deputy commissioner directed that Uzma and Noreen be detained under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960, stating that their activities were “prejudicial to public safety and maintenance of public order”. They were ordered to remain in custody at Central Jail, Kot Lakhpat.
