Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will be permitted a restricted meeting with his sister at Adiala Jail on Tuesday (December 2), even as authorities tighten security across Rawalpindi by imposing Section 144. The decision comes amid increasing pressure on the Shehbaz Sharif–led government from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters demanding access to the detained party chairman.
According to sources quoted by News18, prison officials have approved a brief meeting only for Khan’s sister, Uzma, along with one pre-screened lawyer. The interaction will take place under a strict gag order that prohibits any conversation regarding social media or communications, underscoring Islamabad’s efforts to limit information leaks about the former PM’s condition.
Government agencies reportedly fear that any revelation concerning Khan’s physical or mental state could trigger widespread mobilisation reminiscent of the unrest on May 9, 2023, following his arrest.
Section 144 in Rawalpindi
Protests have intensified outside Adiala Jail in recent days after unverified reports about Imran Khan’s health circulated online. In response, Punjab authorities enforced Section 144 to curb large gatherings and maintain public order. Khan’s three sisters, PTI activists, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi have been staging a sit-in near the facility, urging the government to grant the family access.
PTI has also announced a new wave of demonstrations planned outside the Islamabad High Court and Adiala Jail on Tuesday, increasing concerns for law enforcement agencies.
Officials fear rapid flash protests by PTI supporters, particularly women and youth wings, if new information about Khan emerges. They are also worried that his relatives or legal representatives could hint at possible custodial mistreatment or stress resulting from prolonged isolation.
To prevent further speculation and international attention, the federal government has restricted media presence around the prison. Several human rights organisations have already criticised Pakistan over the extended detention of Imran Khan and the lack of transparency about his welfare.
The government’s refusal to allow his sisters to meet him for nearly a month, coupled with the absence of recent images or videos confirming his condition, continues to fuel widespread speculation across social media platforms.