IHC orders Imran Khan's appearance through video link or in person
Pakistan
Reprimanding Superintendent Jail, judge remarked, "You are mocking the court."
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - The Islamabad High Court (IHC) ordered the immediate appearance of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, either through video link or in person on Friday.
Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan issued the directive while hearing a petition filed by Mashal Yousafzai, who challenged the prison authorities' decision to deny her a meeting with Imran Khan.
The court first summoned the Superintendent of Adiala Jail and instructed him to meet Imran Khan and verify whether Mashal Yousafzai was indeed representing the former premier as his legal counsel.
"This amounts to contempt of court, as the meeting was allowed with the consent of both parties in the previous hearing," the judge remarked. The court had earlier directed the jail authorities to facilitate the meeting between the petitioner and the PTI founder.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the conduct of prison authorities, Justice Ishaq Khan stated, "The court expected compliance with its orders. Prima facie, this is a case of contempt of court by the jail authorities."
The judge further noted that a list presented before the court, provided by Imran Khan’s legal team, was insufficient to satisfy the court. "If the court remains unconvinced, we will directly ask Imran Khan," he added.
Reprimanding the Superintendent of Jail, the judge remarked, "You are mocking the court."
The court directed the authorities to ensure Imran Khan’s appearance via video link by 2 PM. Otherwise, Imran Khan must be produced in person by 3 PM," the judge ordered.
