LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has declared its intention to hold a sit-in outside Adiala Jail, protesting what it calls the solitary confinement of party founder Imran Khan and restrictions on his family’s access to him.
The decision was reached during a PTI Punjab leadership meeting led by Chief Organiser Aliya Hamza Malik, with PTI Punjab President Hammad Azhar, regional presidents, General Secretary, and Provincial Information Secretary Shaukat Basra in attendance.
PTI Punjab resolved to consult with the party’s core and political committees, as well as Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub and Opposition Leader in the Senate Shibli Faraz, regarding the protest strategy.
The meeting strongly condemned the Punjab government’s treatment of Imran Khan, accusing it of psychological pressure through solitary confinement. It was decided that PTI lawmakers, senators, and ticket-holders would take turns participating in the sit-in to ensure a continuous presence.
PTI Seeks LHC Approval for Minar-e-Pakistan Rally
Separately, PTI has approached the Lahore High Court (LHC), requesting permission to hold a public gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan on March 22.
Senior Vice President Akmal Khan Bari filed a writ petition through Advocate Sardar Khurram Latif Khosa, challenging the deputy commissioner’s delay in responding to their application for the event.
The petition argued that PTI wishes to hold the gathering in compliance with legal and constitutional provisions. It noted that March 23 holds national significance, and PTI intends to mark the occasion accordingly.
The petitioner urged the court to prevent authorities from obstructing or intimidating PTI members and called for an official decision on their rally request. The hearing is scheduled for February 24 before Justice Farooq Haider as an objection case.
PTI Leaders Criticize Government Policies
During the meeting, PTI Punjab President Hammad Azhar accused the military establishment of destabilizing the country’s political, economic, and institutional structures. “The armed forces should return to their professional duties and let the people govern,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Aliya Hamza Malik condemned police raids on PTI members’ homes, alleging violations of privacy and mistreatment of women. She announced plans to file cases against officers involved in these operations.
Shaukat Basra criticized the government, calling it a “Form-47 regime” and accusing it of suppressing PTI through what he termed “state-sponsored terrorism” against party leaders and supporters. He also blamed the government for imposing excessive taxes and high utility bills on the public.
Basra asserted that the government would eventually be held accountable for what he described as political victimization and economic mismanagement.
