The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday issued notices to all parties in a contempt of court petition filed over the authorities’ failure to arrange a meeting with incarcerated former premier Imran Khan despite court orders. The IHC summoned the secretary interior, jail superintendent, and other relevant officials, directing them to submit their responses. Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard the petition filed by lawyer and PTI secretary general Salman Akram Raja, who appeared in person before the court.

During the hearing, Raja argued that despite a written court order, he was not allowed to meet Khan last Tuesday.  He informed the court that SHO Aizaz had refused to comply with the court’s directive, requesting that the Deputy Registrar (Judicial) accompany him to ensure compliance.  Justice Tahir remarked that the court would proceed strictly in accordance with the law.

He directed the assistant attorney general to ensure the jail meeting takes place, observing that if Raja cannot meet his client in jail, how can he assist the court in the Twitter/X case?  Summoning the AAG to the rostrum, the judge inquired why the meeting had not been arranged despite clear court orders. The AAG responded that he would inform the concerned authorities again.  Subsequently, the IHC issued notices to all respondents in the contempt petition and adjourned the hearing. The next date of proceedings will be announced in the written order.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)