The Islamabad High Court has reserved its verdict on a petition seeking permission for family meetings, access to a personal physician and provision of essential items to Bushra Bibi. The case was heard by Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir on a petition filed by her daughter, while senior lawyer Salman Akram Raja appeared in court and presented arguments. During the hearing, Salman Akram Raja stated that a brief emergency meeting was held on 17 April 2026 on the day of her surgery.

He added that the last regular weekly meeting took place on 24 February 2026, after which no routine family meetings were allowed for several weeks, except occasional emergency arrangements. He argued that no violation of jail rules had been established and said that since February, only limited meetings had been permitted. He further contended that repeated restrictions were being imposed without proper justification, despite her medical condition and recent surgery.

He also claimed that different restrictions were being imposed intermittently and questioned the basis on which meetings were being denied, stating that the matter had been repeatedly taken to court over the past years. Imran Khan lost vision in one eye due to prison torture, claims Salman Akram Raja On the other hand, the Advocate General Islamabad Naveed Hayat Malik opposed the petition, arguing that the jail superintendent has discretionary authority regarding prisoner facilities and meetings.

He stated that prisoners are required to maintain good conduct and that any violation of rules can lead to restrictions imposed by jail authorities. He also raised objections to the maintainability of the petition, saying an alternative forum exists to challenge jail orders. During arguments, references were also made to social media posts linked to Maryam Riaz Watoo, with the court noting that if there is no direct connection, reliance on such material may not be necessary. The court observed remarks from both sides and noted arguments regarding jail regulations, discretion of authorities, and prisoners’ rights before reserving its judgment on the application.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)