ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court will hear a contempt petition concerning the alleged non-implementation of court orders allowing meetings with former prime minister and PTI founder Imran Khan in accordance with its newly introduced case-fixation policy.
According to sources, the petition relates to the implementation of an Islamabad High Court (IHC) order directing jail authorities to permit meetings between Imran Khan, his family members, and legal counsel. The matter is expected to be taken up according to the Supreme Court’s revised scheduling framework.
Contempt Petition Awaiting Hearing
The petition was filed after allegations that authorities failed to implement an IHC order issued on March 24, which directed prison officials to facilitate meetings between the incarcerated PTI founder and his relatives and lawyers.
PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja had earlier approached the Supreme Court seeking expedited hearings in cases involving Imran Khan.
Following a meeting with Chief Justice Yahya Afridi on May 20, Raja stated that the chief justice had assured him that pending cases concerning Khan would be scheduled for hearing after Eid.
Case Listed Under New Policy
Judicial sources indicate that the contempt petition currently appears further down the Supreme Court’s cause list and will be heard according to the court’s new case management and fixation policy.
Officials maintain that the policy is being applied uniformly and that contempt matters are being taken up in chronological order.
Lawyers Raise Concerns
Several senior lawyers have expressed concerns over delays in hearing cases involving civil liberties and access to legal counsel.
Legal experts argue that the matter is significant because it concerns the rights of a former prime minister whose meetings with family members and lawyers have reportedly remained restricted for several months.
Some lawyers have questioned whether cases involving personal liberty and constitutional rights are receiving adequate priority under the current judicial framework.
PTI’s Ongoing Legal Challenges
Since the passage of constitutional reforms and recent judicial changes, PTI has faced difficulties obtaining relief in various legal matters involving its leadership.
A number of petitions related to Imran Khan and senior party figures remain pending before different courts, contributing to continued legal uncertainty for the party.
Despite pursuing multiple legal avenues, PTI leaders have repeatedly complained about delays in hearings and implementation of court orders.
Government’s Position
Government representatives maintain that Imran Khan continues to receive facilities in accordance with prison regulations.
Officials have also stated that meetings between Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, take place regularly at Adiala Jail.
Political Implications
The issue of prison meetings has become a recurring point of contention between PTI and the government, with the opposition insisting that restrictions violate legal rights and court directives.
The upcoming hearing is expected to draw significant political and legal attention as it touches upon questions of judicial enforcement, prisoner rights, and access to legal representation.
