Scholar Mirza Reports Imran Khan's Frustration in Jail Despite Access to News
Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza, a religious scholar who was recently released on bail after a high-profile blasphemy case, has revealed details about the daily routine of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan while he was incarcerated in Adiala Jail.
In an interview with a private television channel, Mirza described Khan's living conditions, stating that he did not have lavish accommodations but was provided with essential amenities. Khan had access to two newspapers and an LED television in his room, ensuring he stayed informed about current affairs.
Mirza noted that Khan appeared visibly frustrated during his time in jail, a sentiment not uncommon for someone who had spent nearly two years behind bars. The scholar mentioned that Khan was allocated six barracks, with five for his personal use and one for his attendant.
According to Mirza, Khan's daily routine involved two meals: breakfast at 9 a.m. and lunch at 3 p.m. The attendant prepared food using desi ghee, and the aroma of the meals would spread to other inmates. Additionally, Mirza claimed that Khan's loud and continuous outbursts were a notable feature of his behavior when angry.
These revelations have sparked a debate about the conditions and facilities provided to the PTI founder at Adiala Jail. The discussion comes after Mirza's release on bail by the Rawalpindi Bench of the Lahore High Court, where he was charged with blasphemy in Jhelum.
The case, registered by the Federal Investigation Agency's Cyber Crime Wing, alleged insults to revered religious figures. Mirza challenged the investigation and sought relief from the High Court. After submitting surety bonds, he was released from jail in early December.
In response to Khan's incarceration, the PTI wrote to the Senate chairman, urging the formation of a parliamentary committee to review what they described as 'solitary confinement' and 'violation of fundamental rights' at Adiala Jail. The party emphasized the constitutional right of senators to examine the conditions of any citizen in custody, especially a former prime minister and an elected member of the National Assembly.
The PTI proposed Senators Ali Zafar, Hamid Khan, Azam Swati, and Mishal Azam for the committee, expressing grave concern over the unlawful solitary confinement and the violation of Chairman Imran Khan's fundamental rights. The party also raised concerns about the 'isolation and treatment of Bushra Bibi,' calling it a violation of basic human rights.
